Seoul to Take Measures Against North Korea-Russia Military Cooperation

SEOUL: South Korea announced plans to implement "phased measures" in response to the growing military cooperation between North Korea and Russia, urging North Korea to withdraw its troops from Russian territory. According to Kuwait News Agency, Principal Deputy National Security Adviser Kim Tae-hyo stated at a press briefing in Seoul that South Korea will respond in collaboration with the international community if the military cooperation between North Korea and Russia persists. The South Korean government called for the immediate withdrawal of North Korean troops, emphasizing the need for firm action against what it considers illegal military cooperation. During a meeting of the presidential National Security Council, officials assessed the situation following a report from the National Intelligence Service indicating North Korea's decision to deploy approximately 12,000 troops to assist Russia, with about 1,500 already stationed in Russia's Far East. The council agreed on implementing strong and effecti ve measures in coordination with allies and partners, preparing for potential scenarios. South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol, in a conversation with NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte, expressed concerns over the deepening military ties between Pyongyang and Moscow. President Yoon announced plans to send a delegation to NATO to share information and coordinate efforts regarding North Korea's troop deployment. A team of intelligence agents and defense ministry officials is expected to travel to NATO headquarters in Brussels shortly to discuss the situation further.