South Korea Protests Alleged North Korean Troop Deployment in Russia

South Korea summoned the Russian ambassador to protest alleged North Korean troops' deployment in Russia, potentially violating U.N. resolutions as tensions rise over their involvement in Ukraine. Russia and North Korea denied any arms transfers but have pledged to strengthen military ties.

South Korea's foreign ministry has summoned the Russian ambassador following allegations of North Korean troops being sent to Russia for potential deployment in Ukraine. The matter has sparked diplomatic tensions, with the Kremlin avoiding direct confirmation from spokesman Dmitry Peskov.

Vice Foreign Minister Kim Hong-kyun confronted Russian ambassador Georgy Zinoviev, demanding an immediate withdrawal of any North Korean military presence in Russia. The South Korean government condemned the situation as a violation of U.N. resolutions and a security threat, vowing international collaboration against such actions.

Amid South Korean concerns, reports suggest North Korea might have dispatched special forces to Russia's Far East for military training. The situation has drawn international attention, with the United States calling it a "dangerous development" if confirmed. Both Russia and North Korea, however, deny allegations of arms transfers, focusing instead on strengthening mutual defense ties.

(With inputs from agencies.)