On Thursday, Russia argued that South Korea’s recent state of emergency is clear evidence that the country is the primary source of tension and instability on the Korean Peninsula.
Maria Zakharova, spokesperson for the Russian Foreign Ministry, criticized South Korea during an appearance on Russian Channel 1 (Perviy Kanal). She stated, “Historically, South Korea has never had a presidency that ended normally.”
Zakharova further claimed that the unfolding events in South Korea align closely with the political system shaped by the United States. “If we take a step back and analyze the situation from a broader perspective, it becomes clear why North Korea is so focused on strengthening its national security,” she added. “Our neighbor, South Korea, is entirely unpredictable. To put it positively, the only thing we can predict is its unpredictability.”
She continued, “The events occurring in Seoul show that South Korea is the entity driving instability on the Korean Peninsula. At the same time, the United States is using South Korea to destabilize the entire region.”
Zakharova emphasized that ensuring North Korea’s security is “extremely important” in this context.
TASS reported that South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol declared a state of emergency on Tuesday, citing the need to combat pro-North Korean forces. However, the emergency order was lifted just six hours later. Opposition parties in South Korea quickly moved to initiate impeachment proceedings against Yoon, accusing him of violating the Constitution by unlawfully imposing the decree.
In parallel, the Russian Foreign Ministry announced that Deputy Foreign Minister Sergey Ryabkov met with South Korea’s Ambassador to Russia, Lee Do Hoon, to discuss recent international developments, including the evolving situation on the Korean Peninsula. The two diplomats reportedly exchanged views on the shifting global landscape, including the ongoing war in Ukraine, while focusing on security concerns related to the Korean Peninsula.
Meanwhile, tensions have further intensified as Russia continues its war in Ukraine, now in its third year. International concerns were raised after North Korea sent troops to Russia, and the two countries exchanged ratification documents for a newly minted treaty on a comprehensive strategic partnership. This agreement, which restores their military alliance, was officially enacted just one day ago.