North Korea has denied allegations of sending troops to Russia for involvement in the Ukraine conflict, labeling the claims as a smear campaign orchestrated by the West. Ukrainian President Vladimir Zelensky accused North Korea of supplying weapons and military personnel to Russia, prompting South Korea to summon the Russian ambassador and demand a halt to the alleged cooperation with North Korea.
Despite the accusations, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov dismissed speculations of North Korean military involvement in the conflict as a fabricated story, emphasizing the positive relations between Moscow and Pyongyang. The North Korean representative at the UN General Assembly also refuted the claims, stating that such allegations are baseless and aimed at tarnishing their image.
Russia and North Korea have strengthened their ties, signing a treaty to elevate their relationship to a comprehensive strategic partnership. The treaty includes provisions for mutual military assistance in case of invasion. Russian President Vladimir Putin has formally requested parliamentary ratification of the agreement.
Overall, the situation underscores the complex geopolitical dynamics at play in the region, with competing interests and alliances shaping the narrative.