Seoul has raised concerns over the alleged transfer of North Korean troops to participate in the Ukraine conflict, prompting South Korea to summon the Russian ambassador for clarification. The US and NATO have not confirmed the claim yet. The South Korean Foreign Ministry invited Ambassador Georgy Zinovyev to address the issue, emphasizing their stance against the transfer of North Korean military personnel to Russia for engagement in hostilities in Ukraine.
Despite the differing views on the Korean Peninsula tensions, Zinovyev assured that cooperation with Pyongyang adheres to international law and does not threaten South Korean security interests. South Korea demanded the immediate withdrawal of North Korean troops and cessation of cooperation with Russia. Meanwhile, Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov dismissed the allegations and emphasized the sovereignty of Russia’s actions.
The US Defense Secretary and NATO Secretary General expressed concern over the reports, highlighting the uncertainties surrounding the situation. In June, Russia and North Korea established a strategic partnership, awaiting ratification by the Russian parliament.