S. Korean President discusses POWs with Zelensky, holds talks with Trump on vessel construction

South Korean President Lee Jae-myung met with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky for their first summit, agreeing to address the issue of North Korean prisoners of war in Ukraine based on their free will and international law. The two leaders also committed to cooperating on Ukraine's post-war reconstruction efforts.

President Lee informed Zelensky about South Korea's commitment to provide $100 million in comprehensive support for Ukraine's reconstruction, emphasizing continued humanitarian aid and participation in international reconstruction initiatives. This pledge follows Lee's earlier promise of $100 million in support for Ukraine's reconstruction made to NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte.

Separately, President Lee engaged in follow-up discussions with US President Donald Trump regarding Trump's request for military vessel construction. Lee assured Trump of South Korea's full cooperation, introducing companies with strong shipbuilding capabilities. The two leaders agreed to continue working-level discussions on specific plans and pursue a potential visit by President Lee to the US, possibly including a golf outing.

During his visit to Turkey for the NATO summit, President Lee also held bilateral meetings with leaders from Norway and Romania, focusing on defense sales. He also initiated negotiations with NATO Secretary General Rutte to sign a framework agreement on procurement, which is expected to open the door for South Korean companies to participate in NATO's estimated 15 trillion won (approximately $12.5 billion) joint procurement market.