U.S. State Department: North Korea Must Lower Tensions and Return to Talks

The U.S. State Department has called on North Korea to de-escalate tensions following the destruction of sections of the Gyeongui Line and Donghae Line roads, which connect the two Koreas. In a statement, State Department spokesperson Matthew Miller emphasized that the U.S. is closely monitoring the situation in coordination with South Korea, urging North Korea to cease actions that contribute to rising tensions and to return to diplomacy.

North Korea recently claimed that a South Korean drone violated its airspace. In response to this claim, Miller pointed out North Korea has consistently engaged in actions that escalate tensions. He stressed that North Korea should move towards reducing tensions and stopping actions that increase the risk of military conflict.

Miller also voiced concerns over reports that North Korea may have sent troops to Ukraine to support Russia’s invasion. If confirmed, Miller suggested this development would indicate a deepening of ties between North Korea and Russia and could reflect Russia’s increasing desperation due to significant battlefield losses.

North Korea’s recent actions are influencing not only its relationship with South Korea but also its standing in the international community. The U.S. State Department reiterated the importance of diplomatic efforts and urged North Korea to refrain from provocative actions.