SEOUL: South Korea has expressed “deep regret” over Russia’s backing of North Korea in the ongoing dispute regarding Seoul’s alleged drone incursions into Pyongyang. This development marks a significant moment in the diplomatic tensions involving the two Koreas and their international relations.
According to Yonhap News Agency, the South Korean foreign ministry released a statement in response to comments from Maria Zakharova, spokesperson for Russia’s foreign ministry. Zakharova had earlier affirmed Moscow’s view of the drone allegations as “interference in internal affairs” and a “gross encroachment on the sovereignty” of North Korea. These remarks were made following accusations from North Korea that South Korea had sent unmanned drones carrying anti-Pyongyang leaflets over its capital three times this month.
The situation has escalated tensions between the two Koreas, with North Korea continuing to send trash-filled balloons across the border. Seoul’s foreign ministry official criticized Russia’s one-si
ded support for North Korea, emphasizing the destabilizing actions of the North and calling on Russia to justify its lack of response to previous North Korean drone provocations.
Furthermore, South Korea urged Russia to adopt a more constructive role as a permanent member of the U.N. Security Council and to persuade North Korea to cease its deliberate actions that heighten tensions on the Korean Peninsula. The relationship between Russia and North Korea has strengthened in recent years, culminating in a new partnership treaty that includes a mutual defense clause, signed during a summit in Pyongyang in June.
In relation to military matters, Seoul has also called on Moscow to cease its illegal military cooperation with Pyongyang, particularly after Russian media reported that President Vladimir Putin had submitted a bill for ratifying the new treaty to the State Duma.
The North has threatened severe repercussions if South Korea continues its drone activities, with Kim Yo-jong, sister of the North Korean lea
der, accusing South Korea of the drone infiltrations. In response, South Korea’s defense ministry has warned of severe consequences for the North if it harms South Korean citizens, although the South’s Joint Chiefs of Staff could not confirm the drone claims made by the North.