U.S. Accuses Russia of Undermining Global Security with North Korean Exhibit

The U.S. State Department has expressed its disapproval of the North Korean products exhibition in Russia that includes items under UN sanctions.

According to Radio Free Asia on the 27th (local time), a State Department spokesperson responded to a query about the matter saying, “Russia’s actions are unacceptable, disregarding its responsibilities as a member of the UN Security Council and supporting a regime that is expanding its weapons of mass destruction.”

Since the 26th in Vladivostok, Russia, an exhibition showcasing North Korean products, including works from the Mansudae Art Studio that are under UN sanctions has been held.

The State Department spokesperson added, “All member countries, including Russia, are obligated to implement the legally binding Security Council resolutions related to North Korea,” stressing “We should support and strengthen the global non-proliferation system, not undermine it.”

In 2017, the UN Security Council adopted resolution 2371 and added Mansudae Art Studio to the sanctions list, stating that the foreign currency earned by the studio could be used for North Korea’s nuclear and missile programs. Mansudae Art Studio is a North Korean artistic creation organization that mainly exports artworks such as paintings, statues, and monuments.

UN member countries are required to freeze the assets of Mansudae Art Studio and prohibit their citizens from purchasing, owning, or transferring any works from the organization.