EU deepens defence ties with South Korea as it prepares new sanctions package on Russia

European leaders gathered in Brussels for a summit with South Korean President Lee Jae Myung to boost defence cooperation. The talks focused on expanding arms sales, including K2 Black Panther tanks, FA‑50 fighter jets and artillery systems, as the EU seeks to fill gaps in its defence spending. Lee highlighted cultural links, noting BTS’s upcoming concert in Belgium as a way to strengthen ties between the two peoples.

At the same time, the European Commission is set to unveil its 21st sanctions package against Russia. The draft aims to tighten the price cap on Russian crude, close loopholes used by a “shadow fleet” of tankers and blacklist entities that help Moscow evade restrictions. Officials said the measures are intended to further squeeze the Russian war machine and increase pressure on President Vladimir Putin.

Both initiatives reflect the EU’s broader strategy of reinforcing security partnerships and applying economic pressure in response to global challenges.