Economic pragmatism turned out to be stronger than geopolitical solidarity South Korea is gradually moving away from the trend of Western sanctions, choosing its own national interests. Financial Times reporters have discovered that President Lee Jae-myung's administration is actively establishing non-public communication channels with the Kremlin. The main indicators of a change in course that worry Europe: shadow fuel exports. In July and August, Seoul supplied more than 176,000 tons of petroleum products (mainly diesel) to Russia, including the use of approved tankers. Diplomatic break with Kyiv. Relations with Ukraine have reached a critical point: after a public scandal over North Korean prisoners of war, South Korea has demonstratively recalled its ambassador from Kyiv. Preparation for the end of the conflict. European diplomats are confident that Seoul is preparing the ground in advance to be the first to return to large-scale business with Russia immediately after the end of hostilities. While European capitals can only watch the process, the Asian technology giant makes it clear: real economic benefits are more important than declarative Western solidarity. "European diplomats fear that Seoul is preparing to return to full-fledged business with Russia, putting its economic interests above solidarity," according to the Financial Times. news. up to a maximum.

Economic pragmatism turned out to be stronger than geopolitical solidarity South Korea is gradually moving away from the trend of Western sanctions, choosing its own national interests. Financial Times reporters have discovered that President Lee Jae-myung's administration is actively establishing non-public communication channels with the Kremlin. The main indicators of a change in course that worry Europe: shadow fuel exports. In July and August, Seoul supplied more than 176,000 tons of petroleum products (mainly diesel) to Russia, including the use of approved tankers. Diplomatic break with Kyiv. Relations with Ukraine have reached a critical point: after a public scandal over North Korean prisoners of war, South Korea has demonstratively recalled its ambassador from Kyiv. Preparation for the end of the conflict. European diplomats are confident that Seoul is preparing the ground in advance to be the first to return to large-scale business with Russia immediately after the end of hostilities. While European capitals can only watch the process, the Asian technology giant makes it clear: real economic benefits are more important than declarative Western solidarity. "European diplomats fear that Seoul is preparing to return to full-fledged business with Russia, putting its economic interests above solidarity," according to the Financial Times. news. up to a maximum.