In their first face-to-face meeting during the G7 summit in Hiroshima, Japan, President Yoon Suk-yeol committed to providing Ukraine with crucial supplies, such as landmine clearance equipment and emergency vehicles. This assurance came as a response to Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky’s request for non-lethal aid. Yoon underscored South Korea’s dedication to an international order founded on freedom and cooperation, reiterating the nation’s sustained support for Ukraine. The leaders also converged on the urgent need for cooperative efforts in Ukraine’s post-war reconstruction. The meeting comes days after Yoon met with Ukraine’s first lady, Olena Zelenska, in Seoul, where Yoon pledged to provide assistance to Ukraine in coordination with the international community.

Zelensky expressed appreciation for South Korea’s supply of resources, such as medical supplies, generators and computers. Voicing hopes for an accelerated resolution to the conflict and a subsequent peaceful resolution, he highlighted the necessity for increased international assistance as the 15-month-long conflict continues. Yoon assured continued South Korean support for Ukraine until peace and normalcy return to the country. In a post-meeting Twitter post, Zelensky expressed gratitude for the ROK’s humanitarian efforts and non-lethal assistance.