North Korea on Thursday lashed out at "reckless provocation" by the United States and its allies for criticising Pyongyang's support for Russia's war in Ukraine, including the deployment of troops.

In a statement carried by the official Korean Central News Agency, a foreign ministry spokesman said the 10 nations and the European Union (EU) were "distorting and slandering" Pyongyang's "normal cooperative" ties with Moscow.

Pyongyang has sent thousands of troops to reinforce Russia's war effort, including to the Kursk border region, where Ukrainian forces seized territory earlier this year.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/madness-must-be-stopped-zelensky-claims-russian-troops-burning-faces-of-north-korean-soldiers-killed-in-war-784772">'Madness must be stopped', Zelensky claims Russian troops burning faces of North Korean soldiers killed in war</a>

On Monday, those nations and the EU said North Korea's growing involvement in the war in Ukraine in support of Russia constituted a "dangerous expansion of the conflict, with serious consequences for European and Indo-Pacific security".

The foreign ministers of Australia, Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, South Korea, New Zealand, the United Kingdom, the United States and the high representative of the European Union signed the statement, released by Washington.

"We urge the DPRK to cease immediately all assistance for Russia's war of aggression against Ukraine, including by withdrawing its troops", the statement said.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-ukraine-war-kyiv-claims-killing-or-injuring-30-north-korean-soldiers-in-kursk-region-784464">Russia-Ukraine war: Kyiv claims killing or injuring 30 North Korean soldiers in Kursk region</a>

But Pyongyang's foreign ministry fired back, with the spokesman offering its "serious concern and protest, denouncing and rejecting in the strongest terms the reckless provocation of the US and its vassal forces".

North Korea said the "madness" of the response by "hostile forces" indicated that the increased cooperation between Pyongyang and Moscow was effectively "deterring the US and the West's ill-intended extension of influence".

It did not specifically mention its troop deployment alongside Russian forces, only saying the war in Ukraine "has been prolonged" by what it called the "adventuristic military policy and policy of exclusive alliance" of Washington and its allies.

North Korea "will firmly safeguard its legitimate right as a sovereign state, put no restrictions on exercising it and continue to make crucial efforts to preserve regional and global peace and security", the statement carried by KCNA said.

Watch |&nbsp;Russia-Ukraine War: Zelensky Says North Korean Troops Are Fighting In Kursk

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North Korea and Russia have strengthened their military ties since Moscow's invasion of Ukraine in February 2022. A landmark defence pact between Pyongyang and Moscow signed in June came into force earlier this month.

A senior US military official said Tuesday that North Korea had suffered "several hundred casualties in the Kursk region, ranging from "light wounds up to being KIA (killed in action)".

Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits for grammar and punctuation. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

North Korea on Thursday lashed out at "reckless provocation" by the United States and its allies for criticising Pyongyang's support for Russia's war in Ukraine, including the deployment of troops.

North Korea on Thursday lashed out at "reckless provocation" by the United States and its allies for criticising Pyongyang's support for Russia's war in Ukraine, including the deployment of troops. In a statement carried by the official Korean Central News Agency, a foreign ministry spokesman said the 10 nations and the European Union (EU) were "distorting and slandering" Pyongyang's "normal cooperative" ties with Moscow. Pyongyang has sent thousands of troops to reinforce Russia's war effort, including to the Kursk border region, where Ukrainian forces seized territory earlier this year. Also read | 'Madness must be stopped', Zelensky claims Russian troops burning faces of North Korean soldiers killed in war On Monday, those nations and the EU said North Korea's growing involvement in the war in Ukraine in support of Russia constituted a "dangerous expansion of the conflict, with serious consequences for European and Indo-Pacific security". The foreign ministers of Australia, Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, South Korea, New Zealand, the United Kingdom, the United States and the high representative of the European Union signed the statement, released by Washington. "We urge the DPRK to cease immediately all assistance for Russia's war of aggression against Ukraine, including by withdrawing its troops", the statement said. Also read | Russia-Ukraine war: Kyiv claims killing or injuring 30 North Korean soldiers in Kursk region But Pyongyang's foreign ministry fired back, with the spokesman offering its "serious concern and protest, denouncing and rejecting in the strongest terms the reckless provocation of the US and its vassal forces". North Korea said the "madness" of the response by "hostile forces" indicated that the increased cooperation between Pyongyang and Moscow was effectively "deterring the US and the West's ill-intended extension of influence". It did not specifically mention its troop deployment alongside Russian forces, only saying the war in Ukraine "has been prolonged" by what it called the "adventuristic military policy and policy of exclusive alliance" of Washington and its allies. North Korea "will firmly safeguard its legitimate right as a sovereign state, put no restrictions on exercising it and continue to make crucial efforts to preserve regional and global peace and security", the statement carried by KCNA said. Watch | Russia-Ukraine War: Zelensky Says North Korean Troops Are Fighting In Kursk × North Korea and Russia have strengthened their military ties since Moscow's invasion of Ukraine in February 2022. A landmark defence pact between Pyongyang and Moscow signed in June came into force earlier this month. A senior US military official said Tuesday that North Korea had suffered "several hundred casualties in the Kursk region, ranging from "light wounds up to being KIA (killed in action)". Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits for grammar and punctuation. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

North Korea slams US-led criticism over alleged support for Russia, says 'reckless provocation'

Pyongyang, North Korea
North Korea on Thursday lashed out at "reckless provocation" by the United States and its allies for criticising Pyongyang's support for Russia's war in Ukraine, including the deployment of troops.
In a statement carried by the official Korean Central News Agency, a foreign ministry spokesman said the 10 nations and the European Union (EU) were "distorting and slandering" Pyongyang's "normal cooperative" ties with Moscow.
Pyongyang has sent thousands of troops to reinforce Russia's war effort, including to the Kursk border region, where Ukrainian forces seized territory earlier this year.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/madness-must-be-stopped-zelensky-claims-russian-troops-burning-faces-of-north-korean-soldiers-killed-in-war-784772">'Madness must be stopped', Zelensky claims Russian troops burning faces of North Korean soldiers killed in war</a>
On Monday, those nations and the EU said North Korea's growing involvement in the war in Ukraine in support of Russia constituted a "dangerous expansion of the conflict, with serious consequences for European and Indo-Pacific security".
The foreign ministers of Australia, Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, South Korea, New Zealand, the United Kingdom, the United States and the high representative of the European Union signed the statement, released by Washington.
"We urge the DPRK to cease immediately all assistance for Russia's war of aggression against Ukraine, including by withdrawing its troops", the statement said.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-ukraine-war-kyiv-claims-killing-or-injuring-30-north-korean-soldiers-in-kursk-region-784464">Russia-Ukraine war: Kyiv claims killing or injuring 30 North Korean soldiers in Kursk region</a>
But Pyongyang's foreign ministry fired back, with the spokesman offering its "serious concern and protest, denouncing and rejecting in the strongest terms the reckless provocation of the US and its vassal forces".
North Korea said the "madness" of the response by "hostile forces" indicated that the increased cooperation between Pyongyang and Moscow was effectively "deterring the US and the West's ill-intended extension of influence".
It did not specifically mention its troop deployment alongside Russian forces, only saying the war in Ukraine "has been prolonged" by what it called the "adventuristic military policy and policy of exclusive alliance" of Washington and its allies.
North Korea "will firmly safeguard its legitimate right as a sovereign state, put no restrictions on exercising it and continue to make crucial efforts to preserve regional and global peace and security", the statement carried by KCNA said.
Watch | Russia-Ukraine War: Zelensky Says North Korean Troops Are Fighting In Kursk
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North Korea and Russia have strengthened their military ties since Moscow's invasion of Ukraine in February 2022. A landmark defence pact between Pyongyang and Moscow signed in June came into force earlier this month.
A senior US military official said Tuesday that North Korea had suffered "several hundred casualties in the Kursk region, ranging from "light wounds up to being KIA (killed in action)".
Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits for grammar and punctuation. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Pyongyang has sent thousands of troops to reinforce Russia's war effort, including to the Kursk border region, where Ukrainian forces seized territory earlier this year



Pyongyang, North Korea North Korea on Thursday lashed out at "reckless provocation" by the United States and its allies for criticising Pyongyang's support for Russia's war in Ukraine, including the deployment of troops. In a statement carried by the official Korean Central News Agency, a foreign ministry spokesman said the 10 nations and the European Union (EU) were "distorting and slandering" Pyongyang's "normal cooperative" ties with Moscow. Pyongyang has sent thousands of troops to reinforce Russia's war effort, including to the Kursk border region, where Ukrainian forces seized territory earlier this year. Also read | 'Madness must be stopped', Zelensky claims Russian troops burning faces of North Korean soldiers killed in war On Monday, those nations and the EU said North Korea's growing involvement in the war in Ukraine in support of Russia constituted a "dangerous expansion of the conflict, with serious consequences for European and Indo-Pacific security". The foreign ministers of Australia, Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, South Korea, New Zealand, the United Kingdom, the United States and the high representative of the European Union signed the statement, released by Washington. "We urge the DPRK to cease immediately all assistance for Russia's war of aggression against Ukraine, including by withdrawing its troops", the statement said. Also read | Russia-Ukraine war: Kyiv claims killing or injuring 30 North Korean soldiers in Kursk region But Pyongyang's foreign ministry fired back, with the spokesman offering its "serious concern and protest, denouncing and rejecting in the strongest terms the reckless provocation of the US and its vassal forces". North Korea said the "madness" of the response by "hostile forces" indicated that the increased cooperation between Pyongyang and Moscow was effectively "deterring the US and the West's ill-intended extension of influence". It did not specifically mention its troop deployment alongside Russian forces, only saying the war in Ukraine "has been prolonged" by what it called the "adventuristic military policy and policy of exclusive alliance" of Washington and its allies. North Korea "will firmly safeguard its legitimate right as a sovereign state, put no restrictions on exercising it and continue to make crucial efforts to preserve regional and global peace and security", the statement carried by KCNA said. Watch | Russia-Ukraine War: Zelensky Says North Korean Troops Are Fighting In Kursk × North Korea and Russia have strengthened their military ties since Moscow's invasion of Ukraine in February 2022. A landmark defence pact between Pyongyang and Moscow signed in June came into force earlier this month. A senior US military official said Tuesday that North Korea had suffered "several hundred casualties in the Kursk region, ranging from "light wounds up to being KIA (killed in action)". Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits for grammar and punctuation. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Russia's top arms control diplomat on Wednesday (May 22) dismissed the United States’ assertions that Russia had launched a weapon into Earth orbit that was capable of inspecting and attacking other satellites.

The Kremlin has denied claims by US officials that Moscow is developing a space-based anti-satellite nuclear weapon. On Tuesday, US Space Command said Russia had launched an anti-satellite weapon.

The United States noted the launch of a Soyuz rocket earlier this month from Russia's Plesetsk launch site.

Also read:&nbsp;<a data-ctorig="https://www.wionews.com/opinions-blogs/russia-and-china-have-their-differences-but-putin-xi-are-not-talking-about-them-723027" data-cturl="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-element-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/opinions-blogs/russia-and-china-have-their-differences-but-putin-xi-are-not-talking-about-them-723027&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjdmuvagqGGAxUFa2wGHQDVBoEQFnoECAUQAg&amp;usg=AOvVaw2viUnyZ2S4acChpgKKq8Mt&amp;arm=e&amp;fexp=72519171,72519168" dir="ltr" href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions-blogs/russia-and-china-have-their-differences-but-putin-xi-are-not-talking-about-them-723027" target="_blank">Russia, China have their differences but Putin and Xi are not talking</a>

On May 17, Russia's defence ministry confirmed the launch carried a spacecraft but did not provide details about its purpose.

US Space Command said the launch was a likely a counterspace weapon capable of attacking other satellites in low Earth orbit.

According to the Interfax news agency, Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Sergei Ryabkov was quoted as saying, "I don't think we should respond to any fake news from Washington.”

"The Americans can say whatever they want but our policy does not change from this," said Ryabkov, adding that Moscow had "always consistently opposed the deployment of strike weapons in low-Earth orbit."

Earlier, in February, President Vladimir Putin and then defence minister, Sergei Shoigu,&nbsp;had denied US claims that Russia was working on a space-based anti-satellite nuclear weapon designed to disrupt everything from military communications to phone-based ride services.

Also read:&nbsp;<a data-ctorig="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-has-no-plans-of-capturing-ukraines-kharkiv-forces-creating-buffer-zone-putin-722547" data-cturl="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-element-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-has-no-plans-of-capturing-ukraines-kharkiv-forces-creating-buffer-zone-putin-722547&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjoxaH-gqGGAxXYbmwGHRAyDIg4ChAWegQICRAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw2v6v5CpoRJhiLcZs_9H1Jm&amp;arm=e&amp;fexp=72519171,72519168" dir="ltr" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-has-no-plans-of-capturing-ukraines-kharkiv-forces-creating-buffer-zone-putin-722547" target="_blank">Russia&nbsp;has no plans of capturing Ukraine's Kharkiv</a>

While the US Space Command said the May launch included COSMOS 2576, a type of Russian military "inspector" spacecraft that US officials have long said exhibits reckless space behaviour.

According to a US official familiar with the intelligence, US intelligence agencies had anticipated the launch of COSMOS 2576 and informed allies of their assessment before the satellite was deployed. The launch also included civilian satellites placed into different orbits.&nbsp;

As of Tuesday, COSMOS 2576 has not approached any US satellites, but space analysts have observed it in the same orbital ring as USA 314, a bus-sized NRO satellite launched in April 2021.

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However, Ryabkov said that Russia's space programme was developing as planned, including tasks aimed at strengthening defence capability.

He said the US was wrong to have dismissed Russian proposals on strengthening the security of space activities.

(With inputs from agencies)

Russia's top arms control diplomat on Wednesday (May 22) dismissed the United States’ assertions that Russia had launched a weapon into Earth orbit that was capable of inspecting and attacking other satellites.

Russia's top arms control diplomat on Wednesday (May 22) dismissed the United States’ assertions that Russia had launched a weapon into Earth orbit that was capable of inspecting and attacking other satellites. The Kremlin has denied claims by US officials that Moscow is developing a space-based anti-satellite nuclear weapon. On Tuesday, US Space Command said Russia had launched an anti-satellite weapon. The United States noted the launch of a Soyuz rocket earlier this month from Russia's Plesetsk launch site. Also read: Russia, China have their differences but Putin and Xi are not talking On May 17, Russia's defence ministry confirmed the launch carried a spacecraft but did not provide details about its purpose. US Space Command said the launch was a likely a counterspace weapon capable of attacking other satellites in low Earth orbit. According to the Interfax news agency, Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Sergei Ryabkov was quoted as saying, "I don't think we should respond to any fake news from Washington.” "The Americans can say whatever they want but our policy does not change from this," said Ryabkov, adding that Moscow had "always consistently opposed the deployment of strike weapons in low-Earth orbit." Earlier, in February, President Vladimir Putin and then defence minister, Sergei Shoigu, had denied US claims that Russia was working on a space-based anti-satellite nuclear weapon designed to disrupt everything from military communications to phone-based ride services. Also read: Russia has no plans of capturing Ukraine's Kharkiv While the US Space Command said the May launch included COSMOS 2576, a type of Russian military "inspector" spacecraft that US officials have long said exhibits reckless space behaviour. According to a US official familiar with the intelligence, US intelligence agencies had anticipated the launch of COSMOS 2576 and informed allies of their assessment before the satellite was deployed. The launch also included civilian satellites placed into different orbits. As of Tuesday, COSMOS 2576 has not approached any US satellites, but space analysts have observed it in the same orbital ring as USA 314, a bus-sized NRO satellite launched in April 2021. × However, Ryabkov said that Russia's space programme was developing as planned, including tasks aimed at strengthening defence capability. He said the US was wrong to have dismissed Russian proposals on strengthening the security of space activities. (With inputs from agencies)

Russia denies US claim that Moscow deployed anti-satellite weapon in space

North Korean leader Kim Jong Un took his first ride in the&nbsp;Russian-made high-end luxury car that was gifted by President Vladimir Putin, said Kim’s sister, on Saturday (Mar 16) as she hailed the deepening bilateral ties between Moscow and Pyongyang.&nbsp;

<h2>‘Clear proof’</h2>

In February, Putin gifted a high-end Aurus Senat limousine made in Russia, which he had shown the North Korean leader when they met for a summit back in September. It was the first meeting between the two leaders in four years.&nbsp;

The gift has violated multiple United Nations sanctions imposed on North Korea over its nuclear and other weapons programmes by their leader. As a part of the sanctions, which were passed years ago with Russia’s approval, the import of any luxury goods or vehicles is banned into the country.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/putin-gifts-russian-made-car-to-north-koreas-kim-jong-un-violates-un-sanction-691948">Putin gifts Russian-made car to North Korea's Kim Jong Un, violating UN sanctions</a>

Kim used the limousine for the first time during an open event on Friday (Mar 15), said his sister and prominent government official Kim Yo Jong, according to a statement carried by the North Korean state media.&nbsp;

“The special function of the private car is perfect and can be thoroughly trusted,” said Kim Yo Jong, as quoted by the KCNA, without specifying any particular function of the vehicle that she was referring to.&nbsp;

Kim’s ride in the Russian vehicle is “clear proof of the DPRK-Russia friendship, which is developing in a comprehensive way on a new high stage,” the North Korean leader’s sister added using the country’s official name, the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea (DPRK).&nbsp;

Aurus was the first Russian luxury car brand, according to Russian media reports, and has been used in motorcades of top officials since Putin first used the vehicle during his inauguration ceremony in 2018.

The North Korean leader also reportedly attended the opening ceremony of a greenhouse farm on Friday.&nbsp;

<h2>Kim oversees drills</h2>

Kim oversaw troops conducting parachuting training, on Friday, reported the state media on Saturday. However, it was not immediately clear if the North Korean leader used the Russian limousine to attend the training.&nbsp;

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/boeing-asks-airlines-to-check-pilot-seat-switch-after-reported-mishap-led-to-latam-plane-plunge-700691">Boeing asks airlines to check pilot seat switch after reported mishap led to LATAM plane plunge</a>

Kim Jong Un&nbsp;oversaw air warfare drills on Friday and urged “realistic” preparation for combat, reported the KCNA. “Only realistic training directly related to warfare can prepare soldiers as real combat fighters,” said Kim, as quoted by the state media.&nbsp;

This comes after the United States and South Korea held their joint annual 11-day drills which ended on Thursday.

A report by Reuters citing images said Kim’s daughter Ju Ae was also seen attending the drills and the opening ceremony of the greenhouse farm.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

North Korean leader Kim Jong Un took his first ride in the Russian-made high-end luxury car that was gifted by President Vladimir Putin, said Kim’s sister, on Saturday (Mar 16) as she hailed the deepening bilateral ties between Moscow and Pyongyang.

North Korean leader Kim Jong Un took his first ride in the Russian-made high-end luxury car that was gifted by President Vladimir Putin, said Kim’s sister, on Saturday (Mar 16) as she hailed the deepening bilateral ties between Moscow and Pyongyang. ‘Clear proof’ In February, Putin gifted a high-end Aurus Senat limousine made in Russia, which he had shown the North Korean leader when they met for a summit back in September. It was the first meeting between the two leaders in four years. The gift has violated multiple United Nations sanctions imposed on North Korea over its nuclear and other weapons programmes by their leader. As a part of the sanctions, which were passed years ago with Russia’s approval, the import of any luxury goods or vehicles is banned into the country. Also Read | Putin gifts Russian-made car to North Korea's Kim Jong Un, violating UN sanctions Kim used the limousine for the first time during an open event on Friday (Mar 15), said his sister and prominent government official Kim Yo Jong, according to a statement carried by the North Korean state media. “The special function of the private car is perfect and can be thoroughly trusted,” said Kim Yo Jong, as quoted by the KCNA, without specifying any particular function of the vehicle that she was referring to. Kim’s ride in the Russian vehicle is “clear proof of the DPRK-Russia friendship, which is developing in a comprehensive way on a new high stage,” the North Korean leader’s sister added using the country’s official name, the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea (DPRK). Aurus was the first Russian luxury car brand, according to Russian media reports, and has been used in motorcades of top officials since Putin first used the vehicle during his inauguration ceremony in 2018. The North Korean leader also reportedly attended the opening ceremony of a greenhouse farm on Friday. Kim oversees drills Kim oversaw troops conducting parachuting training, on Friday, reported the state media on Saturday. However, it was not immediately clear if the North Korean leader used the Russian limousine to attend the training. Also Read | Boeing asks airlines to check pilot seat switch after reported mishap led to LATAM plane plunge Kim Jong Un oversaw air warfare drills on Friday and urged “realistic” preparation for combat, reported the KCNA. “Only realistic training directly related to warfare can prepare soldiers as real combat fighters,” said Kim, as quoted by the state media. This comes after the United States and South Korea held their joint annual 11-day drills which ended on Thursday. A report by Reuters citing images said Kim’s daughter Ju Ae was also seen attending the drills and the opening ceremony of the greenhouse farm. (With inputs from agencies)

Kim Jong Un rides in limousine gifted by Putin, his sister hails ties between North Korea and Russia

Russia is developing its relations with North Korea in all areas, including "sensitive" ones, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said on Wednesday.

North Korea's foreign minister lauded comradely ties with Russia on Tuesday and then held rare talks in the Kremlin with President Vladimir Putin, who has been invited by Kim Jong Un to visit the reclusive nuclear-armed country.

WATCH |&nbsp;Russia, North Korea leaders meet in Moscow, Putin set to visit North Korea

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Asked about the talks in Moscow, Peskov said the situation on the Korean peninsula was discussed, but that the main focus was on developing bilateral relations.

"The Democratic People's Republic of Korea is our very important partner, and we are focussed on the further development of our relations in all areas, including in sensitive areas," Peskov told reporters.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-claims-north-korea-supplied-russia-with-missiles-for-ukraine-attacks-676691">US claims North Korea supplied Russia with missiles for Ukraine attacks</a>

Putin has deepened ties with North Korea since sending troops into Ukraine in 2022, and the United States and its allies have condemned what they say have been significant North Korean missile deliveries to Russia to help its war effort.

Both Russia and North Korea have repeatedly dismissed the criticism. Moscow says it will develop ties with whatever countries it wants and that its cooperation with Pyongyang does not contravene international agreements.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/after-kim-putin-meet-train-traffic-between-north-korea-and-russia-spikes-643622">After Kim-Putin meet, train traffic between North Korea and Russia spikes</a>

Russia has gone out of its way to publicise the renaissance of its relationship, including military ties, with North Korea, which was formed in 1948 with the backing of the then-Soviet Union.

For Putin, who says Russia is locked in an existential battle with the West over Ukraine, courting Kim allows him to needle Washington and its Asian allies while securing a deep supply of artillery for the Ukraine war.

Russia is developing its relations with North Korea in all areas, including "sensitive" ones, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said on Wednesday. North Korea's foreign minister lauded comradely ties with Russia on Tuesday and then held rare talks in the Kremlin with President Vladimir Putin, who has been invited by Kim Jong Un to visit the reclusive nuclear-armed country.

Russia is developing its relations with North Korea in all areas, including "sensitive" ones, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said on Wednesday. North Korea's foreign minister lauded comradely ties with Russia on Tuesday and then held rare talks in the Kremlin with President Vladimir Putin, who has been invited by Kim Jong Un to visit the reclusive nuclear-armed country. WATCH | Russia, North Korea leaders meet in Moscow, Putin set to visit North Korea Asked about the talks in Moscow, Peskov said the situation on the Korean peninsula was discussed, but that the main focus was on developing bilateral relations. "The Democratic People's Republic of Korea is our very important partner, and we are focussed on the further development of our relations in all areas, including in sensitive areas," Peskov told reporters. ALSO READ | US claims North Korea supplied Russia with missiles for Ukraine attacks Putin has deepened ties with North Korea since sending troops into Ukraine in 2022, and the United States and its allies have condemned what they say have been significant North Korean missile deliveries to Russia to help its war effort. Both Russia and North Korea have repeatedly dismissed the criticism. Moscow says it will develop ties with whatever countries it wants and that its cooperation with Pyongyang does not contravene international agreements. ALSO READ | After Kim-Putin meet, train traffic between North Korea and Russia spikes Russia has gone out of its way to publicise the renaissance of its relationship, including military ties, with North Korea, which was formed in 1948 with the backing of the then-Soviet Union. For Putin, who says Russia is locked in an existential battle with the West over Ukraine, courting Kim allows him to needle Washington and its Asian allies while securing a deep supply of artillery for the Ukraine war.

Russia is developing ties with N. Korea in all areas, including ‘sensitive’ ones: Kremlin

North Korea's Supreme Leader Kim Jong Un and Russian Defence Minister Sergei Shoigu on Saturday (September 16) discussed practical issues to boost military cooperation, in what Pyongyang called a fresh heyday for bilateral relations. Accompanied by Russian Defence Minister Shoigu, Kim inspected Russian nuclear-capable strategic bombers, hypersonic missiles and warships.&nbsp;

On Sunday, Kim will go to several food enterprises. According to a report by the state KCNA news agency, Kim's trip to Russia came as a fresh heyday of friendship, and solidarity and cooperation being opened up in the history of the development of&nbsp;relations between Pyongyang and Moscow.

The report further said that Kim and Shoigu exchanged their constructive opinions on the practical issues arising in further strengthening the strategic and tactical coordination, cooperation and mutual exchange between the armed forces of the two countries and in the fields of their national defence and security.&nbsp;

Speaking to reporters, Shoigu said that Russia was discussing joint military exercises with North Korea.&nbsp;

On Wednesday, Kim met Russian President Vladimir Putin and discussed military matters, the ongoing war in Ukraine and deepening cooperation. The United States has expressed concerns over the warming military ties between North Korea and Russia.

On Friday, the United States as well as South Korea said that the military cooperation between North Korea and Russia would violate United Nations sanctions against Pyongyang.&nbsp;

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North Korea's Supreme Leader Kim Jong Un and Russian Defence Minister Sergei Shoigu on Saturday (September 16) discussed practical issues to boost military cooperation, in what Pyongyang called a fresh heyday for bilateral relations.

North Korea's Supreme Leader Kim Jong Un and Russian Defence Minister Sergei Shoigu on Saturday (September 16) discussed practical issues to boost military cooperation, in what Pyongyang called a fresh heyday for bilateral relations. Accompanied by Russian Defence Minister Shoigu, Kim inspected Russian nuclear-capable strategic bombers, hypersonic missiles and warships. On Sunday, Kim will go to several food enterprises. According to a report by the state KCNA news agency, Kim's trip to Russia came as a fresh heyday of friendship, and solidarity and cooperation being opened up in the history of the development of relations between Pyongyang and Moscow. The report further said that Kim and Shoigu exchanged their constructive opinions on the practical issues arising in further strengthening the strategic and tactical coordination, cooperation and mutual exchange between the armed forces of the two countries and in the fields of their national defence and security. Speaking to reporters, Shoigu said that Russia was discussing joint military exercises with North Korea. On Wednesday, Kim met Russian President Vladimir Putin and discussed military matters, the ongoing war in Ukraine and deepening cooperation. The United States has expressed concerns over the warming military ties between North Korea and Russia. On Friday, the United States as well as South Korea said that the military cooperation between North Korea and Russia would violate United Nations sanctions against Pyongyang. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

'A fresh heyday for bilateral ties': N.Korea, Russia discuss issues to boost military cooperation

Russia on Friday said that it detained more than 260 North Korean fishermen off its Far Eastern coast for poaching.

The mass arrests came after <a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/russian-court-to-consider-freeing-jailed-actor-after-outcry-250659">Russia</a> detained more than 160 North Korean fishermen in the Sea of Japan last week.

The FSB security service said that it stopped "three schooners and five motorboats with 262 North Koreans on board", Russian news agencies reported.

The fishermen did not resist arrest and were brought to the Far Eastern port of Nakhodka, it said.&nbsp;

Around 30,000 squids were seized along with illegal fishing equipment from the North Koreans, the security service added.

Last week, the FSB said three <a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions/russia-joins-gulf-states-in-coaching-sudans-military-227032">Russian</a> coastguards were injured in a clash with a North Korean fishing boat, which it accused of carrying out an "armed attack."

Coastal patrols, planes and special forces were used to detain two schooners and 11 motorboats that carried 161 North Koreans.&nbsp;

They were also brought to Nakhodka and the FSB later said that one of the North Koreans injured in the clash died from his wounds.&nbsp;

After the incident Moscow summoned the North Korean charge d'affaires, expressing "serious concern" over the clash.

The Russian coastguard in the Far East frequently detain North Korean fishermen, many of whom use rudimentary wooden boats. Some receive prison sentences.&nbsp;

There are frequent disputes over fishing rights in the Sea of Japan, which is bordered by Japan, Russia and North and South Korea.

In July, North Korea released a Russian fishing boat with a crew of 15 Russians and two South Koreans after it was detained for violating entry regulations.

Russia on Friday said that it detained more than 260 North Korean fishermen off its Far Eastern coast for poaching. The mass arrests came after Russia detained more than 160 North Korean fishermen in the Sea of Japan last week.

Russia on Friday said that it detained more than 260 North Korean fishermen off its Far Eastern coast for poaching. The mass arrests came after Russia detained more than 160 North Korean fishermen in the Sea of Japan last week. The FSB security service said that it stopped "three schooners and five motorboats with 262 North Koreans on board", Russian news agencies reported. The fishermen did not resist arrest and were brought to the Far Eastern port of Nakhodka, it said. Around 30,000 squids were seized along with illegal fishing equipment from the North Koreans, the security service added. Last week, the FSB said three Russian coastguards were injured in a clash with a North Korean fishing boat, which it accused of carrying out an "armed attack." Coastal patrols, planes and special forces were used to detain two schooners and 11 motorboats that carried 161 North Koreans. They were also brought to Nakhodka and the FSB later said that one of the North Koreans injured in the clash died from his wounds. After the incident Moscow summoned the North Korean charge d'affaires, expressing "serious concern" over the clash. The Russian coastguard in the Far East frequently detain North Korean fishermen, many of whom use rudimentary wooden boats. Some receive prison sentences. There are frequent disputes over fishing rights in the Sea of Japan, which is bordered by Japan, Russia and North and South Korea. In July, North Korea released a Russian fishing boat with a crew of 15 Russians and two South Koreans after it was detained for violating entry regulations.

Russia detains over 260 North Korean fishermen

At a time when US-North Korea relations have hit the lowest ebb, the first-ever summit between Russian President Vladimir Putin and North Korean leader, Kim Jong-Un, in the Pacific port city of Vladivostok on April 25, assumed huge significance in shaping the regional political-security environment.&nbsp;

While actual details of the summit are not available, President Putin said that North Korea needs international security guarantees, if it is to end its nuclear programme.

Such guarantees, he said, would need to be offered within a multinational framework.&nbsp;

True, the erstwhile Soviet Union and North Korea had warm bilateral ties and President Putin has been trying to boost Russia’s engagement with North Korea in recent times.&nbsp;

It was in this context that Russia decided to write off a major part of the debt that North Korea had taken from the Soviet Union.&nbsp;

Russia was also a member of the Six-Party Talks to pursue North Korea to dismantle its nuclear programme. But, North Korea’s decision to launch a long-range rocket in April 2009 and later its withdrawal from the Six-Party Talks, put ties with Russia on the sidelines. 
 
The engagement between Moscow and Pyongyang continued to flag, as Kim, following the Trump administration’s aggressive policy towards North Korea, decided to hold direct talks with the US to resolve the nuclear issue.&nbsp;

Trump too accepted Kim’s invitation for talks. In fact, this changed equation was quite disturbing for Russia because the success of Trump-Kim talks could have halted Russia’s ambition of playing an effective in resolving the crisis in the Korean Peninsula.&nbsp;

The Trump administration has already imposed a sanction over two Russian shipping companies for transferring petroleum products to North Korea in violation of UN Security Council resolutions.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, efforts to resolve the nuclear issue between the US and North Korea through direct talks did not succeed with President Trump refusing to accept North Korea’s demand for complete removal of economic sanctions for its denuclearisation programme.&nbsp;

Consequently, while reports suggested that President Putin wanted to hold a meeting with Kim, the collapse of talks between the US and North Korea, finally led to the summit between Putin and Kim, as North Korea intensified its effort to garner the support of other countries to its approach of denuclearizing the Korean Peninsula.&nbsp;

The meeting proved to be highly encouraging for Kim because Russia fully backed North Korea vis-à-vis the US and Moscow reiterated that the Six-Party Talks is the best way to resolve the Korean crisis.&nbsp;

Russia wants to build a gas pipeline with North Korea to reduce its revenue losses. It also wants to ensure access to North Korea’s mineral resources.&nbsp;

For Kim, Russia can help improve North Korea’s basic infrastructure, including the railways, electricity and modernise its industry.&nbsp;

Improved ties with Russia is also important for North Korea to ensure that the Putin government does not send back its labourers working in Russia, since they are a major source of income for North Korea.

The Putin-Kim first ever meeting underscores their shared concerns about Trump’s unpredictable behaviour. There are apprehensions about President Trump aiming to change the political regime in North Korea.&nbsp;

At the same time, Putin has tried to send a signal about Russia’s influence over North Korea, which could be crucial in addressing the nuclear issue.&nbsp;

The summit between Putin and Kim has also boosted Russia’s stature in China, Japan and South Korea. In fact, it is now possible that South Korea could promote engagement with Russia to address several issues, including the conflict with North Korea.&nbsp;

While the doors of negations between the US and North Korea is now closed, Kim’s continued efforts to advance its nuclear programme, along with a new bonhomie between Russia and North Korea, has added a new dimension in the Korean issue.&nbsp;

It needs be seen how the Korean peninsula is denuclearised, promoting peace, security and development in the region and beyond

 
(This article was originally published on The DNA. Read the <a href="https://www.dnaindia.com/analysis/column-putin-kim-summit-could-change-equations-promote-new-axis-2744732">original article)</a> 
 
(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL.)&nbsp;

At a time when US-North Korea relations have hit the lowest ebb, the first-ever summit between Russian President Vladimir Putin and North Korean leader, Kim Jong-Un, in the Pacific port city of Vladivostok on April 25, assumed huge significance in shaping the regional political-security environment.

At a time when US-North Korea relations have hit the lowest ebb, the first-ever summit between Russian President Vladimir Putin and North Korean leader, Kim Jong-Un, in the Pacific port city of Vladivostok on April 25, assumed huge significance in shaping the regional political-security environment. While actual details of the summit are not available, President Putin said that North Korea needs international security guarantees, if it is to end its nuclear programme. Such guarantees, he said, would need to be offered within a multinational framework. True, the erstwhile Soviet Union and North Korea had warm bilateral ties and President Putin has been trying to boost Russia’s engagement with North Korea in recent times. It was in this context that Russia decided to write off a major part of the debt that North Korea had taken from the Soviet Union. Russia was also a member of the Six-Party Talks to pursue North Korea to dismantle its nuclear programme. But, North Korea’s decision to launch a long-range rocket in April 2009 and later its withdrawal from the Six-Party Talks, put ties with Russia on the sidelines. The engagement between Moscow and Pyongyang continued to flag, as Kim, following the Trump administration’s aggressive policy towards North Korea, decided to hold direct talks with the US to resolve the nuclear issue. Trump too accepted Kim’s invitation for talks. In fact, this changed equation was quite disturbing for Russia because the success of Trump-Kim talks could have halted Russia’s ambition of playing an effective in resolving the crisis in the Korean Peninsula. The Trump administration has already imposed a sanction over two Russian shipping companies for transferring petroleum products to North Korea in violation of UN Security Council resolutions. Meanwhile, efforts to resolve the nuclear issue between the US and North Korea through direct talks did not succeed with President Trump refusing to accept North Korea’s demand for complete removal of economic sanctions for its denuclearisation programme. Consequently, while reports suggested that President Putin wanted to hold a meeting with Kim, the collapse of talks between the US and North Korea, finally led to the summit between Putin and Kim, as North Korea intensified its effort to garner the support of other countries to its approach of denuclearizing the Korean Peninsula. The meeting proved to be highly encouraging for Kim because Russia fully backed North Korea vis-à-vis the US and Moscow reiterated that the Six-Party Talks is the best way to resolve the Korean crisis. Russia wants to build a gas pipeline with North Korea to reduce its revenue losses. It also wants to ensure access to North Korea’s mineral resources. For Kim, Russia can help improve North Korea’s basic infrastructure, including the railways, electricity and modernise its industry. Improved ties with Russia is also important for North Korea to ensure that the Putin government does not send back its labourers working in Russia, since they are a major source of income for North Korea. The Putin-Kim first ever meeting underscores their shared concerns about Trump’s unpredictable behaviour. There are apprehensions about President Trump aiming to change the political regime in North Korea. At the same time, Putin has tried to send a signal about Russia’s influence over North Korea, which could be crucial in addressing the nuclear issue. The summit between Putin and Kim has also boosted Russia’s stature in China, Japan and South Korea. In fact, it is now possible that South Korea could promote engagement with Russia to address several issues, including the conflict with North Korea. While the doors of negations between the US and North Korea is now closed, Kim’s continued efforts to advance its nuclear programme, along with a new bonhomie between Russia and North Korea, has added a new dimension in the Korean issue. It needs be seen how the Korean peninsula is denuclearised, promoting peace, security and development in the region and beyond (This article was originally published on The DNA. Read the original article) (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL.)

Putin-Kim summit could change equations, promote new axis

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/42-injured-after-a-powerful-blast-in-japans-restaurant-184627">Japan will accelerate </a>spending on advanced stealth fighters, long-range missiles and other equipment over the next five years to support US forces facing China's military in the Western Pacific, two new government defence papers said.

The plans are the clearest indication yet of Japan's ambition to become a regional power as a military build-up by China and a resurgent Russia puts pressure on its US ally.

"The United States remains the world's most powerful nation, but national rivalries are surfacing and we recognise the importance of the strategic competition with both China and Russia as they challenge the regional order," said a 10-year defence programme outline approved by Prime Minister Shinzo Abe's government on Tuesday.

The United States, followed by China, North Korea and Russia, are the countries that most influenced Japan's latest military thinking, the paper said.

China, the world's second-biggest economy, is deploying more ships and aircraft to patrol waters near Japan, while North Korea has yet to fulfil a pledge to dismantle its nuclear and missile programmes.

Russia, which continues to probe Japanese air defences, said on Monday it had built new barracks for troops on a northern island it captured from Japan at the end of World War Two.

MORE STEALTH FIGHTERS

Japan plans to buy 45 Lockheed Martin Corp F-35 stealth fighters, worth about $4 billion, in addition to the 42 jets already on order, according to a separate five-year procurement plan approved on Tuesday.

The new planes will include 18 short take-off and vertical landing (STOVL) B variants of the F-35 that planners want to deploy on Japanese islands along the edge of the East China Sea.

The islands are part of a chain stretching past Taiwan and down to the Philippines that has marked the limit of Chinese military dominance east of the disputed South China Sea.

"Japan's decision to acquire more F-35s is a testament to the aircraft's transformational capability and its increasing role in promoting regional stability and enhancing the US-Japan security alliance," Lockheed Martin said in a statement.

The navy's two large helicopter carriers, the Izumo and Kaga, will be modified for F-35B operations, the paper said.

The 248-metre (814 ft) long Izumo-class ships are as big as any of Japan's aircraft carriers in World War Two. They will need reinforced decks to withstand the heat blast from F-35 engines and could be fitted with ramps to aid short take-offs, two defence ministry officials told Reuters.

TRADE WAR THREAT

The new F-35 order may also help Japan avert a trade war with the United States.

US President Donald Trump, who has threatened to impose tariffs on Japanese car imports, thanked Abe for buying the F-35s when the two met at a summit in Argentina this month.

Other US-made equipment on Japan's shopping list includes two land-based Aegis Ashore air defence radars to defend against North Korean missiles, four Boeing Co KC-46 Pegasus refuelling planes to extend the range of Japanese aircraft, and nine Northrop Grumman E-2 Hawkeye early-warning planes.

Japan plans to spend $224.7 billion&nbsp;on military equipment over the next five years, 6.4 per cent higher than the previous five-year plan. Cost-cutting will free up another 2 trillion yen for purchases, the procurement paper said.

Japan only spends about 1 per cent of its gross domestic product (GDP) on defence, but the size of its economy means it already has one of the world's largest militaries.

"The budget is increasing and there has been an acceleration to deploy capability as soon as possible," Robert Morrissey, head of Raytheon Co's unit in Japan, said this month.

Wary of North Korean promises to abandon ballistic missile development, Japan's military is buying longer-range Raytheon SM-3 interceptor missiles to strike enemy warheads in space.

The defence papers assessed non-traditional military threats as well. A new joint-forces cyber unit will bolster Japan's defences against cyber attacks. More electronic warfare capabilities are planned.

Japan's air force will also get its first space unit to help keep tabs on potential adversaries high above the Earth's atmosphere.

Japan will accelerate spending on advanced stealth fighters, long-range missiles and other equipment over the next five years to support US forces facing China's military in the Western Pacific, two new government defence papers said.

Japan will accelerate spending on advanced stealth fighters, long-range missiles and other equipment over the next five years to support US forces facing China's military in the Western Pacific, two new government defence papers said. The plans are the clearest indication yet of Japan's ambition to become a regional power as a military build-up by China and a resurgent Russia puts pressure on its US ally. "The United States remains the world's most powerful nation, but national rivalries are surfacing and we recognise the importance of the strategic competition with both China and Russia as they challenge the regional order," said a 10-year defence programme outline approved by Prime Minister Shinzo Abe's government on Tuesday. The United States, followed by China, North Korea and Russia, are the countries that most influenced Japan's latest military thinking, the paper said. China, the world's second-biggest economy, is deploying more ships and aircraft to patrol waters near Japan, while North Korea has yet to fulfil a pledge to dismantle its nuclear and missile programmes. Russia, which continues to probe Japanese air defences, said on Monday it had built new barracks for troops on a northern island it captured from Japan at the end of World War Two. MORE STEALTH FIGHTERS Japan plans to buy 45 Lockheed Martin Corp F-35 stealth fighters, worth about $4 billion, in addition to the 42 jets already on order, according to a separate five-year procurement plan approved on Tuesday. The new planes will include 18 short take-off and vertical landing (STOVL) B variants of the F-35 that planners want to deploy on Japanese islands along the edge of the East China Sea. The islands are part of a chain stretching past Taiwan and down to the Philippines that has marked the limit of Chinese military dominance east of the disputed South China Sea. "Japan's decision to acquire more F-35s is a testament to the aircraft's transformational capability and its increasing role in promoting regional stability and enhancing the US-Japan security alliance," Lockheed Martin said in a statement. The navy's two large helicopter carriers, the Izumo and Kaga, will be modified for F-35B operations, the paper said. The 248-metre (814 ft) long Izumo-class ships are as big as any of Japan's aircraft carriers in World War Two. They will need reinforced decks to withstand the heat blast from F-35 engines and could be fitted with ramps to aid short take-offs, two defence ministry officials told Reuters. TRADE WAR THREAT The new F-35 order may also help Japan avert a trade war with the United States. US President Donald Trump, who has threatened to impose tariffs on Japanese car imports, thanked Abe for buying the F-35s when the two met at a summit in Argentina this month. Other US-made equipment on Japan's shopping list includes two land-based Aegis Ashore air defence radars to defend against North Korean missiles, four Boeing Co KC-46 Pegasus refuelling planes to extend the range of Japanese aircraft, and nine Northrop Grumman E-2 Hawkeye early-warning planes. Japan plans to spend $224.7 billion on military equipment over the next five years, 6.4 per cent higher than the previous five-year plan. Cost-cutting will free up another 2 trillion yen for purchases, the procurement paper said. Japan only spends about 1 per cent of its gross domestic product (GDP) on defence, but the size of its economy means it already has one of the world's largest militaries. "The budget is increasing and there has been an acceleration to deploy capability as soon as possible," Robert Morrissey, head of Raytheon Co's unit in Japan, said this month. Wary of North Korean promises to abandon ballistic missile development, Japan's military is buying longer-range Raytheon SM-3 interceptor missiles to strike enemy warheads in space. The defence papers assessed non-traditional military threats as well. A new joint-forces cyber unit will bolster Japan's defences against cyber attacks. More electronic warfare capabilities are planned. Japan's air force will also get its first space unit to help keep tabs on potential adversaries high above the Earth's atmosphere.

Japan aims to buy more stealth jets, radar to support US in western Pacific