Lavrov warns against U.S. security alliance aimed at North Korea

On July 11, 2025, in North Korea, Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov met with his North Korean counterpart, Choe Son Hui, during a visit to the eastern city of Wonsan. The discussions were aimed at reinforcing military and cooperative ties between Russia and North Korea, which have grown significantly in recent years. North Korea has been providing troops and ammunitions to Russia to assist in the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, a partnership that has raised alarms among the United States, South Korea, and other nations regarding the potential transfer of sensitive technologies that could enhance North Korea's nuclear and missile capabilities. During the meeting, Lavrov expressed his concerns regarding the military buildups by the U.S., South Korea, and Japan around North Korea, labeling their joint military exercises as provocative. Recently, these nations conducted a joint air drill near the Korean Peninsula which involved U.S. nuclear-capable bombers. Lavrov cautioned these countries against using their alliances to create further antagonistic relations with Russia and North Korea. He acknowledged North Korea's right to pursue nuclear weapons for self-defense against perceived U.S. military threats, emphasizing Russia's understanding of the motivations behind North Korea's nuclear program. Choe Son Hui reaffirmed North Korea's complete support for Russia's military efforts in Ukraine, describing the bond between the two nations as an 'invincible alliance.' Lavrov expressed gratitude for the North Korean troops' contributions in repelling incursions in Russia's Kursk border region, a gesture highlighting the depth of collaboration between the two countries amid ongoing global tensions. Additionally, Lavrov talked about the prospects for increasing Russian tourism to North Korea, indicating ongoing efforts to boost North Korea's struggling economy through tourism initiatives led by Kim Jong Un. The meeting occurred against the backdrop of escalating tensions on the Korean Peninsula, exacerbated by North Korea's nuclear ambitions and the U.S.'s military presence in the region. As North Korea views U.S.-led military exercises as preparations for invasion, the statements made by Lavrov underscore Russia's position as a supportive ally to North Korea in a time of heightened geopolitical strife. Lavrov's remarks indicate a clear warning to the U.S. and its allies, suggesting that continued military partnerships could lead to further destabilization in the region.