The export of 1.3 million barrels of diesel and other fuels from the port of Ulsan, South Korea, to Vladivostok, Russia, has added to the increasing diplomatic tensions between South Korea and the Ukrainian government.
Recent Analysis and Reactions
A recent analysis by a reputable media outlet indicates that in July and August, three vessels involved in fuel exports to Russia were under EU sanctions. Two of these vessels were directly loaded in Ulsan and sent to Russia. Reports suggest that these vessels loaded their cargo without any issues with local authorities regarding their sanctioned status.
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Altered Shipping Routes
In some of these voyages, the crews of the vessels initially declared a destination in Japan or Singapore and then redirected to Vladivostok to deliver their fuel. This has led to severe criticism from Ukrainian officials and sharp responses from South Korean authorities. An advisor to the President of Ukraine pointed out that South Korea is somehow facilitating Russia's fuel crisis. In response to these remarks, a spokesperson for the Blue House in South Korea stated that these comments are incorrect and inappropriate.
However, the South Korean Ministry of Foreign Affairs announced on Thursday that it would investigate whether the exported diesels were sent to Russia. The ministry noted that some energy goods, including diesel and jet fuel, are currently not under South Korea's export controls, and legal action will be taken if illegal cases are discovered.
Existing Tensions Between South Korea and Ukraine
Relations between Kyiv and Seoul have previously been affected by tensions. North Korea is assisting in providing manpower and weapons for Russia's attack on Ukraine, and in some cases, Ukrainian soldiers have captured several North Korean nationals on the battlefield. In a recent prisoner exchange, Ukraine transferred two North Korean war prisoners to South Korea.
This sensitive agreement had previously been reached, but the two sides disagreed on whether this matter should remain confidential. Volodymyr Zelensky, the President of Ukraine, revealed this exchange in a public session at the United Nations General Assembly on September 24, mentioning North Korea's use of these individuals as currency and receiving military technology in return.
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