PYONGYANG: Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov expressed concern over US policy toward North Korea during his visit to Pyongyang, labelling it “dangerous.” Lavrov’s two-day visit is seen as a precursor to an upcoming visit by Russian President Vladimir Putin, who was invited by North Korean leader Kim Jong Un following a high-profile summit.
Lavrov emphasized the “new, strategic level” of relations between Russia and North Korea.
Lavrov voiced worries about the heightened military activities of the United States, Japan, and South Korea in the region, and criticized Washington’s policies, particularly its placement of “strategic infrastructure, including nuclear elements,” in the area. In response to North Korea’s series of weapons tests, South Korea has strengthened its security ties with the US and engaged in a trilateral defence arrangement with Japan.
However, Lavrov highlighted the deepening relationship between Russia and North Korea and confirmed that their relations have reached a “qualitatively new, strategic level.” Moscow also expressed interest in assisting North Korea with its energy needs, with plans for geological exploration and energy resource supply discussed. Both topics will be addressed in a joint meeting scheduled for November.
Lavrov’s visit to Pyongyang followed his trip to Beijing with President Putin. During a welcome dinner, Lavrov commended North Korea for its support of Russia’s actions in Ukraine.
Furthermore, the recent summit between Kim and Putin raised concerns about potential weapons transfers from North Korea to Russia, as the United States reported that arms shipments were underway. The White House claimed that more than 1,000 containers of military equipment and munitions were delivered from North Korea to an ammunition depot located near the Ukrainian border. North Korea sought various military assistance in exchange for these shipments, including advanced technologies.
Russia refuted these allegations and challenged the US to provide proof of weapon transfers, emphasizing the lack of evidence supporting these claims.
