Russia Warns South Korea Against Joining NATO Arms Support for Ukraine
en01.web.id – Rusia. The government of Russia has officially warned South Korea not to participate in NATO-linked military assistance programs involving the delivery of weapons to Ukraine. The statement was released on Sunday (February 22, 2026), responding to recent developments and reports suggesting Seoul is considering involvement in Western-backed military support initiatives.
Russian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Maria Zakharova emphasized that Moscow views any external military support to Ukraine as a serious escalation. “We warn Seoul about serious consequences if it decides to engage in schemes involving arms supplies to Ukraine,” Zakharova said in an official statement delivered in Moscow.
She further stated that such actions would be regarded as unfriendly and could significantly damage bilateral relations between Russia and South Korea. According to her, the involvement of an East Asian country in a European conflict risks expanding the scope of the crisis and heightening global security tensions.
The chronology of this development began with Ukraine’s increasing demand for weapons and military equipment following the outbreak of war with Russia in 2022. Since then, NATO and its allies have continuously supplied arms and financial assistance to Kyiv. In recent months, the alliance has expanded its framework, allowing partner countries outside NATO to contribute to Ukraine’s defense efforts.
Amid this expansion, reports emerged indicating that South Korea—known for its advanced defense industry—was being considered as a potential contributor. Discussions reportedly included indirect support mechanisms such as funding programs or supplying military equipment through allied coordination channels.
These developments prompted gradual responses from Moscow, which had previously signaled concerns over expanding international involvement in the conflict. The warning issued on February 22, 2026 marks a more direct and formal stance by Russia, stressing that any form of military contribution would be interpreted as participation in the conflict.
As of now, the South Korean government has not released an official response to Russia’s warning. Analysts note that Seoul faces a strategic dilemma, balancing its strong alliances with Western nations and its need to maintain stable diplomatic relations with Russia.
This situation highlights how the Russia–Ukraine conflict has evolved into a broader geopolitical issue, drawing in countries beyond Europe. Russia’s warning to South Korea underscores rising global tensions, where decisions on military support could have far-reaching implications for international stability.