South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol is poised to discuss North Korea's expanding military cooperation with Russia and its implications for global security during talks at NATO. Yoon emphasized the necessity for Moscow to clarify its interests between the Koreas, warning of significant challenges to peace and stability in both Asia and Europe.
Yoon's remarks, issued ahead of his departure for a NATO summit in Washington, highlight his concerns over the growing military ties between Russia and North Korea. He stressed that South Korea's decision on potential military support for Ukraine hinges on developments in this new alliance.
"Military cooperation between Russia and North Korea poses a distinct threat and grave challenge to peace and security on the Korean peninsula and in Europe," Yoon stated in response to questions from Reuters.
This summit marks Yoon's third attendance at such a gathering and underscores South Korea's increasingly proactive role in global security issues. Alongside Australia, Japan, and New Zealand, South Korea forms part of the group of Asia-Pacific partners participating in the discussions on July 10 and 11.
Tensions between South Korea and Russia have escalated amid reports of ballistic missile and artillery transfers from Pyongyang to support Russia's actions in Ukraine, although both countries deny such arrangements. Yoon urged Russia to reconsider its alignment with North Korea, cautioning that the future of South Korea's relations with Russia hinges entirely on Moscow's choices.
Yoon has advocated for stronger security partnerships with European and U.S. allies to counteract North Korea's nuclear and missile threats. He also highlighted South Korea's deepening cooperation with NATO, including plans for a cyber defense exercise in September.
Leaders gathering in Washington for the NATO summit will commemorate the alliance's 75th anniversary while addressing contemporary global security challenges. Yoon refrained from commenting on potential shifts in U.S. policy should Donald Trump secure a second presidential term but emphasized bipartisan support for the enduring U.S.-South Korea alliance.
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