Chung had a telephone conversation with Kuleba in the afternoon of March 2. They discussed the current situation in Ukraine including the Korean government’s humanitarian assistance to Ukraine and participation in economic sanctions on Russia, and the safety of their respective citizens in the two countries.

Chung deplored innocent casualties in Ukraine and explained that the Korean government has decided to provide US$10 million in humanitarian assistance to help the Ukrainian government and people.

As humanitarian assistance, the Korean government is planning to provide  medical supplies such as protective suits, first aid kits, medical gloves and masks, and blankets at the earliest possible date, as requested by the Ukrainian government. 

Kuleba expressed his abiding gratitude to the Korean government and people for their solidarity and support at this difficult time. He also offered an overview of recent developments in Ukraine.

Chung reaffirmed the Korean government’s strong condemnation of Russia’s armed invasion of Ukraine as a violation of the principles of the UN Charter. He also expressed the Korean government’s support for Ukraine’s efforts for a peaceful resolution of the situation as well as the Korean government’s position of actively joining the international community’s endeavours, including economic sanctions.

Noting the Ukrainian people’s indomitable courage and unity in the face of a difficult situation, Chung explained the Korean government’s economic sanctions on Russia, including export controls and suspension of financial transactions with Russian banks.

In addition, the two sides agreed to work closely together for the safety of their nationals in their respective countries.

Chung asked for the Ukrainian government’s attention and support for the safety and evacuation of Korean nationals in Ukraine. In response, Kuleba said that Ukraine will spare no effort to ensure their safety.

Chung also explained that the Korean government granted special stay permits to Ukrainians in Korea in view of humanitarian concerns until the situation in their home country stabilizes. Kuleba conveyed his deep appreciation for the attentive consideration of the Korean government.

Furthermore, as close partners celebrating the 30th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations, the two sides agreed to continue close consultations for a peaceful resolution of the situation in Ukraine, and indeed to further strengthen bilateral exchanges and cooperation once the situation in Ukraine stabilizes.

The two sides discussed measures for the holding of a telephone conversation between the Presidents of the two countries at the earliest convenience, considering the fluid situation in Ukraine. Source: South Korean Ministry of Foreign Affairs