New Delhi – In a strongly-worded statement at the United Nations General Assembly, South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol cautioned against any scenario in which Russia aids North Korea in enhancing its weapons programs in exchange for support in the ongoing Ukraine conflict. President Yoon asserted that such a move would constitute a “direct provocation” and emphasized that South Korea and its allies would not remain passive bystanders. He pointed out that this situation could jeopardize not only Ukraine’s peace and security but also that of South Korea and the broader Indo-Pacific region.
The President’s remarks came shortly after North Korean leader Kim Jong Un concluded a week-long visit to Russia during which he and Russian President Vladimir Putin pledged to strengthen military cooperation.
President Yoon underscored that North Korea’s nuclear and missile programs pose a severe threat not only to South Korea but also to peace across the Indo-Pacific and the world. He criticized the paradox of a permanent member of the U.N. Security Council engaging in warfare by invading a sovereign nation while receiving arms and ammunition from a regime that blatantly defies U.N. Security Council resolutions.
Both Seoul and Washington have voiced concerns about Russia potentially seeking ammunition from North Korea to replenish its supplies depleted due to the Ukraine conflict, while North Korea seeks technological assistance for its nuclear and missile initiatives.
Yoon warned, “If (North Korea) acquires the information and technology necessary to enhance its WMD capabilities in exchange for supporting Russia with conventional weapons, the deal will be a direct provocation, threatening the peace and security of not only Ukraine but also the Republic of Korea. The Republic of Korea, together with its allies and partners, will not stand idly by.”
It’s essential to note that any activities supporting North Korea’s weapons programs are explicitly prohibited by U.N. Security Council resolutions. Despite this, Russian President Putin has stated that Russia, as one of the five permanent members of the Security Council, would “never violate anything.”
South Korean authorities have refuted this claim, revealing that they had been monitoring military transactions for several months leading up to the summit between Kim and Putin.
Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov expressed Russia’s desire to expand ties with North Korea across various domains, further fueling concerns.
Additionally, South Korea’s vice foreign minister, Chang Ho-jin, summoned Russia’s ambassador to urge Moscow to refrain from potential arms deals with North Korea, highlighting the possibility of “clear consequences.” Discussions are also underway with the United States and other nations to impose more sanctions on both Russia and North Korea.
The situation has exposed divisions within the Security Council, making it challenging to establish a unified stance on Russia. Nevertheless, officials remain committed to cohesive action in collaboration with allies and friends.
President Yoon’s speech exemplifies South Korea’s unwavering dedication to regional and global peace, firmly opposing any actions that could escalate tensions or endanger international security.
By Reuters
