US Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin has raised concerns about the growing military cooperation between Russia and North Korea, stating that it undermines the international order. During a meeting in Seoul with defense ministers from UN Command, Austin expressed deep worry over China and Russia’s assistance in strengthening North Korea’s military capabilities.
Austin claimed that North Korea is allegedly providing weaponry to Russia for use in special military operations in Ukraine, while Russia is said to be increasingly supporting North Koreans in “widespread illicit activities.”
“This activity not only threatens the Republic of Korea, but also undermines the rules-based international order that has ensured prosperity and peace for the past 70 years,” Austin stated.
He added that North Korea continues to develop its missile and nuclear capabilities, as well as its cyber domain, posing a threat to South Korea, the United States, and their allies and partners in the region.
Earlier, the North Korean Ministry of Foreign Affairs accused the United States of destabilizing peace in Europe through the supply of prohibited weapons to Ukraine.
