US worried over Russia-North Korea arms deal

Matthew Miller, a spokesperson for the U.S. State Department, expressed concerns that Russia might violate UN sanctions by supplying weapons to North Korea. Such actions could destabilize the Korean peninsula and potentially breach resolutions supported by Russia in the UN Security Council. During his tour of Asia, Russian President Vladimir Putin visited North Korea, hinting at arming the country as a response to the West’s aid to Ukraine. Putin also cautioned South Korea against providing weapons to Ukraine, threatening retaliation. John Kirby, a U.S. security advisor, wasn’t surprised by the development, having previously warned about the emerging defense relationship between Russia and North Korea. NATO also expressed concerns on Thursday about possible Russian weapon supplies to North Korea’s missile and nuclear programs. The U.S. suspects North Korea is seeking to acquire Russian combat aircraft, air defense missiles, armored vehicles, and other advanced technologies.