During his visit to North Korea, Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov warned the United States, Japan, and South Korea not to form any alliance that targets North Korea or Russia. Russia claims that the growing military cooperation among these three countries appears to be part of a dangerous strategy aimed at encircling both North Korea and Russia.
Recently, the U.S., Japan, and South Korea conducted a joint military drill near the Korean Peninsula, involving U.S. nuclear-armed bombers. Both Russia and North Korea believe these countries are forming a new security bloc, with them as the primary targets.
“Don’t Gang Up Against Us” – Lavrov
Military and economic cooperation between Russia and North Korea has steadily increased in recent years. North Korea has not only supplied Russia with ammunition for the Ukraine war, but according to reports, has also provided military personnel. After the meeting, Lavrov stated clearly that the U.S., Japan, and South Korea should restrain their military drills and alliance activities. He warned that these relationships should not be used against any one country or bloc, whether it's North Korea or Russia.
Russia Defends North Korea’s Nuclear Program
Lavrov also spoke in support of North Korea’s efforts to develop nuclear weapons. He said this technology is the result of hard work by North Korean scientists, and that Russia understands the reasons behind this decision. Notably, North Korea claims it is building nuclear weapons to defend itself from possible U.S. attacks.
“Thank You for Helping Us in Ukraine” – Russia
Lavrov also acknowledged North Korea’s help in the Ukraine war. He stated that North Korean soldiers assisted Russia in repelling Ukrainian attacks at the Kursk border and expressed his gratitude. The meeting took place in the coastal resort city of Wonsan, which North Korea has recently developed to boost tourism. Lavrov spoke about opening new pathways for Russian tourists and said Russia will make air travel and other arrangements easier to promote tourism.
