Russia expresses concern over recent military exercises between South Korea and the United States

Aug. 24 () –

Russia on Wednesday called on the parties to continue the dialogue and has expressed concern about the situation in North Korea in the face of the recent joint military exercises by the United States and South Korea.

“We consider that such actions, which cause great concern in Pyongyang, are counterproductive and dangerous. We have a negative attitude towards steps that lead to an escalation of tension,” Russian Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Maria Zajarova said in a statement. release.

In this sense, Moscow has indicated that it is interested in “maintaining and strengthening lasting peace and stability” in the region, as well as in “the development of dialogue and the normalization of relations between the two Korean states without the intervention of forces external”.

“The Russian-Chinese initiatives of recent years, the road map and the action plan for a comprehensive solution of the problems on the Korean peninsula, are aimed at achieving these goals,” Zajarova concluded.

Washington and Seoul say they are exercises of a defensive nature to coordinate forces in the face of a hypothetical invasion of North Korea. The drills known as the Ulchi Freedom Shield are expected to involve thousands of military personnel and will continue from Monday for the next two weeks.

In recent weeks, nuclear war rhetoric has increased by North Korea, which a few days ago launched two cruise missiles into the Yellow Sea, the fourth launch since the new president of North Korea took office in May. South, Yoon Suk Yeol.

The United States still has about 28,500 troops in South Korea and both US President Joe Biden and his South Korean counterpart have said the drills are essential to prepare for any potential provocation from Pyongyang.