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John Kirby, the National Security Council spokesman, gives a briefing at the White House on April 20. (UPI/Yonhap)

With Russia signaling that it may provide weapons to North Korea if South Korea sends lethal weapons to Ukraine, Washington is underscoring its treaty alliance with South Korea. Washington has also hinted that support for Ukraine may be on the table for discussion during the South Korea-US summit next week.

Asked how the White House viewed Russia’s threats in response to Yoon’s comments in Reuters, John Kirby, the White House National Security Council spokesperson, said, “I would just remind you that we have a treaty alliance with South Korea, we take that commitment very seriously.”

In response to Yoon’s suggestion that South Korea could provide lethal weapons in the event of a “large-scale attack on civilians,” Kirby said, “We’re grateful for the support that South Korea has already provided Ukraine in the tune of $100 million in humanitarian assistance.”

“South Korea is a terrific ally and a terrific friend,” the spokesperson said, noting that the country has condemned Russian aggression and spoken out in support of Ukraine.

Kirby also noted that during Yoon’s state visit Yoon and Biden “will discuss a range of challenges not just in the Indo-Pacific, but across Europe and in Ukraine.” The two leaders will also discuss challenges from North Korea and China, he said.

Rather than offering specifics on Yoon’s possible military support or the friction between South Korea and Russia, these remarks appear to have been a basic expression of gratitude for South Korea’s support for Ukraine and emphasize the South Korea-US alliance.

By mentioning that Ukraine may be discussed at the South Korea-US summit on Wednesday, Kirby seemed to indicate that he expects South Korea to support Ukraine and actively participate in the pressure campaign on Russia.

On the other hand, when asked at the briefing whether tensions between South Korea and the US over the leak of classified Pentagon documents had been resolved, US State Department principal deputy spokesperson Vedant Patel said only, “South Korea is an important regional partner, and we look forward to welcoming them [Yoon] next week for their state visit.”

Patel also said foreign leaders “appreciate the steps that the US is taking” in response to the leak.

By Lee Bon-young, Washington correspondent

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