South Korea's foreign ministry has called the Russian ambassador to discuss North Korea's reported dispatch of 1,500 troops to train and potentially fight alongside Russian forces in Ukraine. VP Foreign Minister Kim expressed strong condemnation, while the Russian embassy stated that their cooperation with North Korea is in line with international law and not directed against South Korea. The U.S. and NATO also expressed concern and potential escalation if these reports are confirmed.
Russia's Alleged Use of North Korean Troops in Ukraine Raises Concerns
South Korea's foreign ministry has summoned the Russian ambassador to protest North Korea's reported deployment of 1,500 troops to Ukraine to train and potentially fight alongside Russian forces. The move has raised concerns from South Korea, the United States, and NATO.
Background
North Korea has a history of arms sales to Russia, particularly in the 1990s and early 2000s. In 2018, the UN Security Council banned North Korea from exporting weapons. However, there have been reports of continued arms sales since then.
In July 2022, U.S. intelligence officials claimed that Russia had purchased rockets and artillery shells from North Korea for its war in Ukraine. This claim was denied by both Russia and North Korea.
South Korea's Concerns
South Korea has condemned the reported troop deployment, stating that it violates UN Security Council resolutions and could escalate tensions in Northeast Asia. The country's vice foreign minister, Kim Gunn, expressed concerns that the troops could be used for covert operations in South Korea.
Russia's Response
The Russian embassy in Seoul has dismissed South Korea's concerns, stating that its cooperation with North Korea is in line with international law and does not pose a threat to South Korea.
International Reaction
The United States and NATO have also expressed concern over the reports of North Korean troops being deployed to Ukraine. The U.S. has said that it is closely monitoring the situation and will take appropriate action if necessary. NATO has warned that the use of North Korean troops in Ukraine could lead to an escalation in the conflict.
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