HTML Russian Defense Minister Sergei Shoigu announced on Monday that Russia is engaged in negotiations with North Korea to potentially conduct joint military drills. The aim of these exercises is to enhance military cooperation and arms trade between the two nations. The announcement follows a claim made by South Korea’s intelligence agency that during his visit to Pyongyang in July, Mr. Shoigu proposed a “three-way naval drill” involving China to North Korean leader Kim Jong Un. Although Mr. Shoigu did not confirm whether he made such a proposal, he stated that Russia and North Korea are discussing the possibility of joint military drills. Mr. Shoigu visited North Korea on July 25 to commemorate the 70th anniversary of the Korean War and had discussions with Mr. Kim. The potential inclusion of North Korea in Russia-China joint exercises could escalate tensions in East Asia, where both Russia and China have been increasing their presence.
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