South Korea considers joining NATO initiative to fund weapons for Ukraine - The Korea Times
South Korea considers joining PURL initiative (photo: Getty Images)
South Korea is considering joining the NATO PURL initiative, which provides for the purchase of American weapons for Ukraine, The Korea Times reports.
The publication notes that if the country decides to participate, this step could deepen defense ties with Europe, as Seoul seeks to expand arms sales to NATO members while further straining relations with Russia.
Following the example of Japan, South Korea's contribution will most likely be limited to the purchase of non-lethal weapons.
Ministry of Foreign Affairs of South Korea stated that it is "in continued discussions with NATO on various ways to support Ukraine."
The Ministry official confirmed that NATO approached South Korea with a request to join the PURL mechanism to support Ukraine.
He said that Seoul's position on assisting countries affected by war is focused on "humanitarian aid and other nonlethal military equipment," declining to specify whether the government is leaning toward participation in the initiative.
Last year, the United States and NATO launched the Prioritised Ukraine Requirements List (PURL) program, which envisions the supply of American weapons to Ukraine at the expense of European countries. Kyiv may receive air defense systems, missiles, and ammunition.
Funds have already been allocated for the program, including Denmark (about 580 million Danish kroner), Sweden (275 million dollars), Norway (135 million dollars), the Netherlands (500 million euros), and Germany.
In September 2025 first deliveries of military equipment under PURL arrived in Ukraine. New ones are expected soon.
According to the latest statements, the majority of NATO member states — more than 20 countries — participate in the PURL program. Australia, New Zealand, and Japan recently joined the initiative.
The United Kingdom also allocated a funding package for the purchase of American weapons for Ukraine.
United States Ambassador to NATO Matthew Whitaker stated that Germany, the Netherlands, and Norway are three countries that purchased the largest amount of American weapons for Ukraine under the PURL program.
Recently, American leader Donald Trump once again boasted that America no longer spends money on Ukraine, unlike his predecessors, but instead earns from it thanks to the PURL program.
NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte reported that this year United States will supply Ukraine with its own weapons worth 15 billion dollars, paid for by Europe.
