The South Korean government reached an agreement for the United States. Borrow 500,000 rounds of 155 mm artillery ammunition, which will allow the United States to provide more flexibility in supplying ammunition to Ukraine. According to South Korean media reports today (April 12),
The Dong A Ilbo newspaper quoted an unnamed source within the South Korean government as saying that South Korea decided to install the U.S. “borrow” Temporary ammo instead of selling them This was to reduce the risk that South Korean ammunition would be used directly in the Ukraine war.
The source confirmed that these US bullets will be used mainly to replenish their own arsenal
The United States bought 100,000 artillery shells from South Korea last year. and asked to buy more for the same amount Together in February, but the Seoul government asked to deliver by other means.
“We increased the amount of artillery shells we can provide. but a loan After we review how to respond to the requests of allies without violating the principles of the government that prohibits the delivery of lethal weapons to Ukraine,” the source explained.
Seoul and Washington have previously admitted they are negotiating an ammunition supply deal. South Korea’s defense ministry said the two countries are looking to help Ukraine defend itself. But he did not ask to go into the details of the conversation.
The US State Department has not come out to comment on this matter either.
South Korean Foreign Minister Park Jin Refused to confirm Dong A Il Bo’s reports. But he reiterated the Seoul government’s stance not to send lethal weapons to Ukraine. “It remains unchanged,” according to the Yonhap news agency.
This move happened After the US and NATO “top secret” document about the situation in Ukraine was leaked. This reflects that South Korea is facing pressure from the West to provide military aid to Ukraine. which is contrary to state policy which does not want to be directly involved in this conflict
Although South Korea is a major ally and supplier of ammunition to the United States. But in the past, they have tried to avoid causing too much resentment to Russia. Partly for the sake of economic relations. He also wants Moscow to use its influence to stop North Korea.
source: Reuters
