Russia has responded to reports that South Korea is considering joining the NATO-led Prioritised Ukraine Requirements List (PURL) that allocates funds for the purchase of weapons.
Moscow said the step, if taken, would contradict Seoul’s official position of non-involvement in the collective West’s efforts to accumulate armament and ammunition for Ukraine.
Foreign Ministry’s spokeswoman Maria Zakharova advised South Korea to prevent “deterioration” in relations with Russia, and in a possible restoration of bilateral dialogue and cooperation.
“The Republic of Korea’s potential participation in such supplies – whether direct or indirect – would only undermine the prospects for resolving the conflict,” Zakharova said.
Moscow added that Seoul’s full alignment with NATO would compel Russia to exercise its right to retaliate and eliminate any possibility of resuming constructive dialogue on the Korean Peninsula.
South Korea is reportedly reviewing whether to join the NATO initiative to help finance the purchase of U.S. weapons for Ukraine, a move that would deepen defense ties with Europe.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs said it was “in continued discussions with NATO on various ways to support Ukraine,” and that its assistance is centered on “humanitarian aid and other nonlethal military equipment.”
Launched in July 2025 by the United States and NATO, the Prioritised Ukraine Requirements List seeks to accelerate the delivery of urgently needed weapons to Ukraine.
Under the system, participating countries pool financial contributions into a common package to supply U.S.-made arms and other critical equipment, instead of arranging separate purchases.
Ukraine: Russia cautions South Korea on NATO arms purchase
