우크라 총리 “일본에 원하는 것 딱 하나, 패트리엇 미사일”

Ukrainian Prime Minister Sergey Koretsky publicly requested the Japanese supply of Patriot missiles on December 23rd, stating "I only ask for one thing from Japan – the supply of missiles capable of intercepting ballistic missiles." He emphasized that "protecting Ukrainian citizens and power infrastructure is the most important thing" to ensure the country survives the upcoming winter season.

The Ukrainian government considers the shortage of anti-ballistic missiles to be a critical issue, with only 29 out of 195 intercepted Russian ballistic missile launches last month attributed to Patriot missiles. The country currently holds only 1% of the anti-missile systems needed to defend against Russian aggression. Recently, Russian forces have been using more advanced Taepodong missiles, including North Korean variants.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky confirmed the use of these missiles and requested assistance from the Korean government in deploying advanced anti-missile systems. The Ukrainian Prime Minister expressed his urgent need for support during his first interview with a Japanese media outlet within a month of taking office. While Japan has been actively supporting Ukraine since the war began through economic sanctions and military aid, the likelihood of Japan providing Patriot missiles appears slim.

Recent revisions to Japan's defense equipment transfer principles have expanded the scope of weapons exports, but the country maintains restrictions on supplying equipment to conflict zones. Japan is specifically prohibited from exporting weapons to Ukraine, and the recent North Korean territorial claims by Russian President Vladimir Putin have further strained relations.

Japanese Foreign Minister Kono Shihoro reaffirmed the government's stance against unilateral attempts to alter international order, emphasizing Japan's ongoing support of Ukraine through equipment donations and humanitarian aid totaling $20 billion.