In an unequivocal response to the recent deployment of a Democratic People’s Republic of Korea (DPRK) ballistic missile by Russia against Ukraine on December 30, 2023, and January 2, 2024, a coalition of nations has issued a joint statement expressing their strongest disapproval. The signatory countries collectively denounce the DPRK’s export and Russia’s procurement of DPRK ballistic missiles, emphasizing the severe repercussions and global implications of these actions.
The transfer of ballistic missiles from the DPRK to Russia, followed by their use in Ukraine, is deemed a blatant violation of international norms and United Nations Security Council resolutions (UNSCRs). Of particular concern is Russia’s involvement in these activities, given its prior support for resolutions 1718 (2006), 1874 (2009), and 2270 (2016). The coalition expresses deep concern, asserting that this collaboration not only exacerbates the suffering of the Ukrainian people but also contributes to Russia’s ongoing war of aggression, undermining the foundations of the global non-proliferation regime.
The potential for this collaboration to provide valuable technical and military insights to the DPRK raises security concerns that extend beyond Europe, impacting the Korean Peninsula, the Indo-Pacific region, and the world at large. The coalition stresses the imperative for the international community to take a united stance against such actions, safeguarding the principles of peace and non-proliferation.
Governments of the undersigned nations stand resolutely united in opposition to arms transfers between the DPRK and Russia. The joint statement calls upon the DPRK and Russia to immediately cease all activities that violate UN Security Council resolutions, including the transfer of ballistic missiles and related materiel. The signatory nations pledge to closely monitor and scrutinize any reciprocal actions or benefits resulting from these weapons transfers.
In a call to action, the coalition urges all United Nations Member States, especially members of the United Nations Security Council, to condemn these blatant UNSCR violations. The joint statement emphasizes unwavering support for Ukraine in the face of Russia’s aggressive actions, including the launching of missiles and drones against the Ukrainian people. Additionally, the coalition implores the DPRK to consider numerous sincere offers to return to diplomacy, viewing it as the only path toward achieving enduring peace on the Korean Peninsula.
This joint statement reflects the collective commitment of the following nations:
Andorra, Austria, Australia, Belgium, Bulgaria, Canada, Croatia, Cyprus, Czech Republic, Denmark, European Union, Estonia, Finland, France, Georgia, Germany, Guatemala, Greece, Iceland, Ireland, Israel, Italy, Japan, Republic of Korea, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Moldova, Monaco, Montenegro, Netherlands, New Zealand, Palau, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, United Kingdom, United States.
