Following Donald Trump's victory in the presidential election, the South Korean government began to reconsider its policy on arms supplies to Ukraine. According to Bloomberg, Trump's victory has raised concerns in Seoul about U.S. support for Ukraine and has influenced discussions about a possible change in the country's position on providing lethal aid to Kyiv.
According to a source close to the South Korean government, the administration of President Yoon Seok-yol is now forced to take into account the position of the new US leader when deciding on the possible supply of ammunition and other weapons to Ukraine. South Korea has previously maintained a policy of not supplying lethal weapons to the conflict zone, fearing further deterioration of the situation in the region and increased tensions with the DPRK.
Analysts say Trump may reconsider his support for Ukraine, making the situation even more difficult for Seoul. Political scientist Kim Yun of the University of North Korean Studies said:
"It would be awkward for South Korea, which is not even a NATO member, to get involved in the conflict, especially if Trump wants to distance himself from it."