UNITED NATIONS: The United States has issued a stark warning about the growing military capabilities of North Korea, citing its troops’ involvement in Russia’s conflict against Ukraine. According to Deputy U.S. Ambassador to the U.N., Dorothy Camille Shea, Pyongyang is acquiring critical combat experience that could strengthen its readiness for war.
“The DPRK is significantly benefiting from receiving Russian military equipment, technology, and experience, making it more capable of waging war against its neighbors,” Shea told the United Nations Security Council during a meeting on Wednesday.
North Korea’s Role in Russia-Ukraine Conflict:
Reports reveal that over 12,000 North Korean troops are stationed in Russia, with many actively participating in combat operations in the Kursk region. This collaboration strengthens the military alliance between Pyongyang and Moscow, which has been growing since Russia’s invasion of Ukraine in February 2022.
Shea further warned that North Korea could leverage its improved military capabilities to promote global weapons sales and military training contracts.
North Korea Defends Missile Test:
North Korea’s U.N. Ambassador Kim Song justified a recent intermediate-range hypersonic ballistic missile test as part of enhancing its self-defense. Accusing the US of double standards, Kim stated:
“When the civilian death toll exceeded 45,000 in Gaza, the United States justified Israel’s actions as self-defense. Meanwhile, it criticizes the DPRK’s legitimate self-defense measures.”
Russia’s Stance and Denial:
Russia’s U.N. Ambassador Vassily Nebenzia dismissed US allegations that Russia plans to share satellite and space technology with North Korea as baseless. He accused the US, South Korea, and Japan of provoking Pyongyang with military exercises.
Nebenzia also took the opportunity to congratulate Kim Jong Un on his birthday, reinforcing the friendly ties between Moscow and Pyongyang.
South Korea Calls Out North Korea:
South Korea’s U.N. Ambassador Joonkook Hwang criticized the exploitation of North Korean troops.
“North Korean soldiers are essentially slaves to Kim Jong Un, brainwashed to sacrifice their lives on faraway battlefields to raise money for his regime and secure advanced military technology from Russia,” Hwang said.
Ongoing Sanctions and Security Concerns:
North Korea has been under U.N. sanctions since 2006 to curb its development of nuclear weapons and ballistic missiles. However, Russia’s veto power in the 15-member council makes further action unlikely.
The US warns that Pyongyang’s growing combat experience and military advancements pose significant threats to regional security.
