South Korean Foreign Ministry summoned Russian ambassador to Seoul on Monday to protest the sending of North Korean soldiers to Russia to take part in the war in Ukraine. According to the ministry, this move poses a serious threat to international security and violates UN resolutions, reports Reuters, quoted by BTA.
First Vice Foreign Minister Kim Hong-kyun called for the immediate withdrawal of North Korean troops and promised a coordinated response with the international community. Russia and North Korea deny the presence of troops but have pledged to deepen their military relationship.
South Korea's intelligence agency said last week that North Korea has sent 1,500 special forces soldiers to Russia's Far East for training and acclimatization at local military bases, and they are likely to be sent to combat operations in the Ukraine war.
South Korea has indicated that it will use all available means to respond to such actions that threaten its core security interests. The Russian embassy said it would pass the message on to Moscow.
Ukraine's president, Volodymyr Zelensky, accused Pyongyang of preparing to send 10,000 troops to Russia and on Sunday called for a strong response from countries that have recognized North Korea's growing involvement in the war in Ukraine.
The White House National Security Council could not confirm reports that North Korean troops are fighting for Russia, a spokesman said Friday, but added that if true, "it would mark a dangerous development in Russia's war against Ukraine." ;.
US Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin and NATO chief Mark Rutte also said last week there was no evidence at this stage of the presence of North Korean troops in Russia.