Tensions Rise as South Korea Protests Alleged North Korean Troops in Russia

South Korea's foreign ministry summoned the Russian ambassador in Seoul to protest North Korea's alleged deployment of troops to Russia for the Ukraine conflict. The move is said to violate U.N. resolutions and has been condemned by South Korea, which plans a joint international response.

In an escalating diplomatic row, South Korea's foreign ministry summoned the Russian ambassador in Seoul on Monday to protest the alleged dispatch of North Korean troops to Russia for deployment in Ukraine. This move, according to South Korea, violates U.N. resolutions and poses serious security threats.

Kim Hong-kyun, South Korea's first vice foreign minister, urged Russia's top envoy to Seoul, Georgy Zinoviev, for the immediate withdrawal of North Korean soldiers, condemning Pyongyang's military involvement. The Kremlin, however, denies that any North Korean military personnel are aiding Russia.

The White House and NATO have expressed concerns, with the latter stating that North Korean involvement would escalate the conflict. Despite denials, Russia and North Korea have pledged closer military ties, raising alarm among international stakeholders.

(With inputs from agencies.)