Wed Oct 16 16:20:00 UTC 2024: ## North Korea’s Military Support for Russia Raises Concerns, U.S. Says

**Washington, D.C.** – The United States has expressed growing concern over North Korea’s increasing military support for Russia in its ongoing war against Ukraine. Deputy Secretary of State Kurt Campbell stated on Wednesday that Washington and its allies are alarmed by Pyongyang’s nuclear threats and the mounting evidence suggesting North Korea is supplying materials, such as artillery and missiles, to aid Moscow.

Campbell’s comments followed discussions with South Korean and Japanese officials about renewing international pressure on North Korea. Tensions on the Korean peninsula remain high, with Pyongyang ramping up weapons tests and threats against South Korea.

While the U.S. cannot confirm reports that North Korean soldiers are fighting in Ukraine, Campbell emphasized that Washington is monitoring the situation closely and remains concerned about Pyongyang’s involvement.

The U.S., South Korea, Japan, and eight other Western governments have announced plans to launch a multinational team to monitor North Korean sanctions enforcement. The move is aimed at countering North Korea’s arms sales to Russia, which Campbell said are contributing to instability in Europe.

North Korea’s involvement in the Russia-Ukraine war comes as it continues to threaten South Korea. Pyongyang has accused Seoul of using drones to drop propaganda leaflets over its territory and threatened to retaliate if such actions continue. In a symbolic move, North Korea demolished parts of unused road and rail routes connecting it to South Korea, highlighting its frustration with Seoul’s conservative government and intensifying tensions on the peninsula.

In response to North Korea’s actions, Washington, Seoul, and Tokyo have increased joint military exercises and strengthened their nuclear deterrent strategies. Following talks with Campbell and Japanese Vice Foreign Minister Masataka Okano, South Korean Vice Foreign Minister Kim Hong Kyun condemned North Korea’s provocations and stressed the need for a strong South Korea-U.S. combined posture to respond firmly.

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