South Korea Slams North Korea-Russia Military Alliance

South Korea has demanded the immediate withdrawal of North Korean troops from Russia, in response to North Korea's alleged deployment of 1,500 special forces in support of Russia's war against Ukraine. Seoul condemns the military cooperation and plans to exchange information with NATO.

South Korea on Monday made a strong demand for the immediate withdrawal of North Korean troops said to be deployed in Russia. This move came as Seoul summoned the Russian ambassador, voicing concerns over deepening military ties between Pyongyang and Moscow.

The National Intelligence Service of South Korea confirmed the deployment of 1,500 North Korean special forces to Russia, allegedly to bolster Moscow's efforts in Ukraine. President Volodymyr Zelenskyy had previously indicated intelligence reports suggesting a preparation of 10,000 North Korean soldiers for the Russian front.

In a diplomatic meeting, Vice Minister Kim Hong Kyun expressed grave concerns, highlighting the security threat posed by North Korea's actions. South Korea plans to collaborate with NATO to address these developments, while Western nations remain cautious, with no confirmed reports of the troop deployment.

(With inputs from agencies.)