On October 23, Maria Zakharova, the spokesperson for the Russian Foreign Ministry, firmly denied allegations that North Korea is sending troops to assist Russia in its military operations in Ukraine. This statement comes in response to confirmations from the United States and NATO regarding North Korea’s involvement. Zakharova labeled these claims as “false and inaccurate” and further warned South Korea against intervening in the Ukraine conflict, emphasizing that Russia would respond to any aggressive actions.
During a press conference held on the same day, Zakharova addressed comments made by U.S. Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin, who claimed to have evidence of North Korean troops being deployed to Russia. She dismissed Austin’s assertions as completely baseless, suggesting that he should inquire with the North Korean authorities about the whereabouts of their troops.
In light of South Korea’s announcement to send military forces to counteract North Korea’s actions with Russia, Zakharova criticized the South Korean government’s response as puzzling. She contended that South Korea should not cooperate with what she described as Ukraine’s “rogue regime.”
Zakharova acknowledged that, despite historical geopolitical differences, Russia and South Korea have built a strong record of economic and humanitarian cooperation. She questioned why South Korea is currently yielding to provocations from Western societies.
Moreover, she underscored that military cooperation between Russia and North Korea would not negatively impact South Korea, cautioning that Russia would respond decisively to any actions perceived as threats to its national security and that of its people. She urged the South Korean government to consider its decisions carefully.
