Zelensky said Kyiv had deployed several hundred military specialists to the Middle East following the outbreak of conflict involving Iran, aiming to share its experience in countering drone threats and safeguarding maritime routes.

“Ukrainian military personnel are taking part in consultations on the further operation of the Strait of Hormuz. Safe navigation is a global value; we know this from our experience defending the Black Sea,” Zelensky said in his evening address.

Ukraine has relied on asymmetric tactics and technological innovations during its war with Russia, including the use of naval drones, to counter attempts to restrict access to the Black Sea, a critical corridor for its economy and military operations.

Zelensky said interest in Ukraine’s defense capabilities is expanding beyond Europe, with diplomats receiving requests from Asian countries seeking cooperation on maritime security and related technologies.He did not identify the countries involved but said officials had been instructed to engage on the requests promptly.

Ukraine’s participation in Hormuz-related discussions reflects growing international focus on securing key maritime chokepoints amid ongoing geopolitical tensions affecting global energy and trade flows.

South Korea has expressed its intention to collaborate with the United States to obtain enriched uranium fuel for its first domestically built nuclear-powered submarine.

This initiative represents a major milestone in the country’s pursuit of advanced defense technology and self-reliant energy solutions.

President Lee Jae Myung recently held productive discussions with U.S. President Donald Trump during the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) Summit in Gyeongju.

The talks focused on strengthening bilateral ties and accelerating cooperation in nuclear energy and maritime defense innovation.

During the summit, President Lee emphasized that South Korea plans to build the submarine entirely within the country, showcasing its technological capability and shipbuilding excellence.

He also requested U.S. support in providing enriched uranium fuel, a key component for efficient submarine propulsion.

Washington has reportedly given positive approval for Seoul’s use of nuclear fuel for the project. This step highlights mutual trust and shared commitment to peaceful energy use and regional stability.

The move reinforces South Korea’s growing position as a global leader in shipbuilding, nuclear technology, and energy independence.
It also reflects a forward-thinking approach to defense modernization aligned with international safety standards.

While past agreements limited South Korea’s nuclear fuel development for military purposes, the evolving partnership with the U.S. marks a significant turning point. It opens the door for broader cooperation in advanced energy systems and sustainable maritime defense solutions.

The decision to construct the submarine domestically has generated enthusiasm among South Korean industry leaders. Major companies, including Hanwha Ocean and Hyundai Heavy Industries, are expected to play crucial roles in the development and production process.

The project will not only enhance national defense capabilities but also create new jobs, stimulate technological innovation, and boost the local economy. It represents a strategic investment in both national security and industrial growth.

President Trump’s recent remarks expressing strong support for South Korea’s technological progress have further strengthened optimism on both sides. The partnership is viewed as a symbol of enduring U.S.-South Korea friendship and cooperation in science, defense, and trade.

Meanwhile, both countries are also finalizing a joint fact sheet outlining a $350 billion investment package aimed at deepening economic integration. The agreement covers key areas such as renewable energy, technology modernization, and trade facilitation.

Officials from both nations are currently refining the details to ensure the pact reflects shared goals of prosperity, stability, and innovation.
Once finalized, this deal will serve as a cornerstone of future economic and security collaboration.

South Korea’s pursuit of a nuclear-powered submarine reflects its ambition to maintain peace through strength, technology, and strategic partnerships. It is a vision that balances defense modernization with responsible energy development and environmental responsibility.

This project is expected to place South Korea among the few nations capable of building advanced nuclear-powered vessels, highlighting its engineering and technological achievements. It underscores the country’s readiness to take on larger roles in global defense and energy cooperation.

Through collaboration, innovation, and mutual respect, the U.S. and South Korea continue to shape a secure and sustainable future.
Their alliance stands as a model of how technology and diplomacy can come together to advance peace, progress, and prosperity.