**Russia’s Lavrov Warns West Against North Korea Security Pact**
Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov has cautioned the United States, South Korea, and Japan against forming a security partnership specifically targeting North Korea. In a visit to North Korea, Lavrov held talks with leader Kim Jong Un and conveyed greetings from Russian President Vladimir Putin.
**Deepening Cooperation Between Russia and North Korea**
Relations between Russia and North Korea have expanded significantly in recent years. North Korea has been a crucial supplier of troops and ammunition for Russia’s war in Ukraine, reportedly in exchange for military and economic assistance. This deepening cooperation has raised alarms among South Korea, the U.S., and other nations concerned that Russia might transfer sensitive technologies that could enhance North Korea’s nuclear and missile programs.
**Warning Against Military Buildups**
Speaking to reporters after his meeting with North Korean counterpart Choe Son Hui, Lavrov accused the U.S., South Korea, and Japan of military buildups around North Korea. “We warn against exploiting these ties to build alliances directed against anyone, including North Korea and, of course, Russia,” Lavrov said.
**Counter-Measures by US, South Korea, and Japan**
The U.S., South Korea, and Japan have been expanding or restoring their trilateral military exercises in response to North Korea’s advancing nuclear program. On July 11, the three nations conducted a joint air drill involving U.S. nuclear-capable bombers near the Korean Peninsula.
**Russia’s Understanding of North Korea’s Nuclear Program**
Lavrov expressed Russia’s understanding of North Korea’s decision to develop nuclear weapons: “The technologies used by North Korea are the result of the work of its own scientists. We respect North Korea’s aspirations and understand the reasons why it is pursuing nuclear development.”
**North Korean Support for Russia’s War in Ukraine**
During their meeting, Choe Son Hui reiterated North Korea’s “unconditional” support for Russia’s war with Ukraine. Lavrov, in turn, reiterated Russia’s gratitude for North Korean troops who helped repel Ukraine’s surprise cross-border incursion in Russia’s Kursk border region.
**Tourism in Wonsan-Kalma**
The meeting took place in Wonsan city, which is central to Kim Jong Un’s strategy to boost tourism as a means of improving the country’s struggling economy. However, the future prospects for the complex remain uncertain, as North Korea shows no immediate signs of fully reopening its borders to Western tourists.
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