US State Department Expresses Deep Concern over Putin’s Proposal on North Korean Weapons
According to an official, supplying North Korea with weapons, as suggested by Russian President Vladimir Putin, would have a destabilizing effect on the Korean Peninsula.
The U.S. State Department expressed deep concern over Putin’s recent comments regarding arming North Korea. During his visit to the isolated nation, Putin likened supplying weapons to North Korea to the West arming Ukraine amidst the ongoing conflict with Russia. He also cautioned South Korea against arming Ukraine.
State Department spokesman Matthew Miller, in a news briefing on Thursday, called Putin’s remarks on potential arms supplies to Pyongyang “incredibly concerning.” He highlighted the destabilizing impact such action could have on the Korean Peninsula and the possible violation of U.N. Security Council resolutions supported by Russia.
The United States affirmed its commitment to working with regional allies like South Korea and Japan to address the threat posed by North Korea. A recent agreement between Russia and North Korea stipulates mutual military assistance in the event of aggression against either party.
Despite concerns from U.S. and NATO officials over Putin’s visit to North Korea, a country that, technically, remains at war with the United States and South Korea due to the absence of a peace treaty following the Korean War, North Korean leader Kim Jong Un described the agreement with Russia as their “strongest ever treaty.”
Some officials view Russia’s support for North Korea as a sign of desperation, with worries about potential aid to the isolated nation’s missile and nuclear programs. The Russia–North Korea pact raises concerns about the destabilizing impact on the region and the possibility of North Korea resuming nuclear testing.
Putin’s subsequent visit to Vietnam saw him warning about NATO’s expansion in Asia and emphasizing the need for a response. This narrative of escalating tensions between major powers underscores the complex geopolitical landscape of the region.
Reuters contributed to this report.
