North Korea has publicly denounced the United States’ decision to supply $8 billion in military aid to Ukraine, labeling it an “incredible mistake” and a perilous provocation against Russia. This strong condemnation comes from the Kim Jong Un-led government, which views the aid package as a significant threat, particularly given Russia’s nuclear capabilities.
The announcement of the aid package, which includes long-range weapons aimed at bolstering Ukraine’s capacity to strike Russia from safer distances, was made by US President Joe Biden during a visit by Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy to Washington.
Kim Yo Jong, the sister of North Korean leader Kim Jong Un, has been vocal in her criticism of the US decision. She accuses Washington of escalating the conflict in Ukraine and pushing Europe towards a potential nuclear war. In a statement released by the state news agency KCNA, Kim warned, “The United States and the West should not dismiss or underestimate Russia’s serious warning.”
She questioned the readiness of the US and the West to face the repercussions of their actions against Russia, a nuclear superpower. Russian President Vladimir Putin has previously issued warnings about a potential nuclear response if Russia is attacked.
Kim characterized the US decision to support Zelenskyy’s military efforts as a “dangerous and irresponsible gamble.” She holds a prominent position within North Korea’s ruling Workers’ Party and frequently voices Pyongyang’s stance on political and security issues.
The close ties between North Korea and Russia have been strengthening, including a mutual defense pledge. The US has accused North Korea of illegally supplying Russia with weapons, specifically 16,500 containers of weapons since last September, which Russia has reportedly used against Ukraine. Both North Korea and Russia have denied any illegal arms trade.
While Russia has strong alliances with global powers like China and India, North Korea has emerged as Russia’s most crucial ally in the ongoing Ukraine conflict, providing significant military aid, as highlighted by the head of Ukraine’s military intelligence agency, Kyrylo Budanov.
This latest condemnation from North Korea underscores the growing tension and complexity of the international landscape, where the Ukraine conflict has become a focal point for geopolitical maneuvering and potential escalation. The situation raises concerns about the potential for wider conflict and the unpredictable consequences of the escalating military aid provided by the US to Ukraine.
