South Korea Expresses Regret Over Russia’s Support for North Korea in Drone Controversy

SEOUL: South Korea voiced "deep regret" Tuesday after Russia expressed support for North Korea's claim that Seoul flew drones into Pyongyang, and characterized the alleged acts as an infringement of sovereignty and interference in internal affairs. According to Yonhap News Agency, Seoul's foreign ministry issued the statement in response to comments from Maria Zakharova, spokesperson for Russia's foreign ministry. Zakharova's remarks came as North Korea accused the South of sending unmanned drones carrying anti-Pyongyang leaflets over its capital three times this month. The South Korean official criticized Russia for siding with North Korea's one-sided claims, highlighting the ongoing provocations from the North that destabilize the region. Tensions have escalated between the two Koreas amid these drone allegations and the North's continued practice of sending trash-filled balloons across the border into the South. Seoul has urged Russia to play a constructive role as a permanent member of the U.N. Security Council and to persuade North Korea to refrain from actions that heighten tensions on the Korean Peninsula. Furthermore, South Korea reiterated its call for Moscow to cease its illegal military cooperation with Pyongyang. This follows reports by Russia's Sputnik agency that President Vladimir Putin submitted a bill to the State Duma for ratifying a new treaty with North Korea that includes a mutual defense clause. Seoul emphasized that any cooperation between Russia and North Korea must strictly comply with U.N. Security Council resolutions and international law, and must not pose a threat to South Korea's security. The ministry stated it would work with the international community to respond firmly to any actions that threaten its security. The dispute continues as North Korea, through Kim Yo-jong, the sister of the North's leader, warned of a "horrible disaster" if South Korea sends more drones over Pyongyang. She accused the South Korean military of the drone infiltrations but provided no evidence to su pport her claims. In response, South Korea's defense ministry warned that any harm caused by North Korea to South Korean people could lead to the end of its regime.