Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov held talks with North Korean leader Kim Jong Un, bolstering ties amid perceived Western hostility. The meeting in Pyongyang followed Lavrov's gratitude for North Korea's support of Russia's actions in Ukraine and pledged solidarity with Kim.
Lavrov expressed concerns about increased U.S., Japanese, and South Korean military activities, highlighting regional tensions. Kim recently visited Russia and invited President Vladimir Putin to Pyongyang for military cooperation discussions. The visit aligns with Russia's efforts to strengthen ties with North Korea, prompting concerns from South Korea and the U.S.
The U.S. and South Korea expressed unease about Russia's growing exchanges with North Korea. They emphasized compliance with UN resolutions. A recent think-tank report suggested munition transfers between North Korea and Russia, while the U.S. and South Korea increased joint military drills with Japan in response to North Korean threats.
Lavrov's visit marked the latest step in a month after Kim's rare trip to Russia. The two leaders discussed military cooperation, and Kim extended an invitation to Putin to visit Pyongyang. A U.S. think-tank reported ongoing activity around a North Korean port near Russia. Satellite images suggested at least six sea trips between the two nations since late August, possibly linked to the transfer of North Korean munitions to Russia.
A North Korean passenger-cargo ferry, which had previously carried foreign tourists, was also observed at a drydock, likely for maintenance. It remained uncertain if the vessel would be used to facilitate trade activity between Russia and North Korea. The White House had voiced concern over North Korea providing Russia with weapons, while Russia refuted Western allegations due to a lack of evidence.
South Korea and the United States expressed worry about the increased exchanges between Russia and North Korea. Both allies enhanced military drills with Japan in response to the North Korean threat, and South Korea urged Russia to adhere to United Nations resolutions in its dealings with North Korea.
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