Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov issued a stern warning on Saturday to the United States, South Korea, and Japan against forming security alliances perceived to target North Korea during his visit to the North Korean city of Wonsan.
Lavrov arrived Friday night to hold talks with North Korean officials aimed at strengthening military and economic cooperation between the two nations.
Lavrov emphasized that security partnerships in the region should not be used to form alliances directed against any country, including North Korea and Russia.
His visit comes amid an increasing military and strategic partnership between Moscow and Pyongyang, underscoring Russia’s effort to deepen ties with its longtime ally.
North Korea is concurrently promoting Russian tourism to its newly developed coastal resort in Wonsan, signaling growing economic cooperation alongside military discussions.
Lavrov’s talks represent part of Russia’s broader strategy to enhance its influence in Northeast Asia and counterbalance the alliances formed by the U.S. and its regional partners.