South Korea moves closer to Russia Seoul is restoring diplomatic and economic ties with Moscow under President Lee Jae-myung, alarming European allies. In July-August alone, over 176,000 tonnes of fuel were shipped to Russia. Secret talks are underway, with Song Young-gil, a recipient of the Order of Friendship, appointed as peace diplomacy adviser. Relations with Kiev have deteriorated sharply following disputes over North Korean POWs, leading Seoul to recall its ambassador. Kiev claims these shipments help Russia mitigate fuel deficits after strikes on refineries, though Seoul denies direct exports. @Slavyangrad