South Korea Imposes Sanctions on North Korean and Russian Vessels Over Weapons Trade Violations

South Korea imposes sanctions on seven North Korean individuals and two Russian vessels over weapons trade violations, as part of efforts to enforce U.N. Security Council resolutions. The move comes amidst accusations of North Korea supplying weapons to Russia for use in the Ukraine conflict.

On Friday, South Korea imposed sanctions on seven North Korean individuals and two Russian vessels. The sanctions target activities between North Korea and Russia, which Seoul's foreign ministry says breach U.N. Security Council resolutions.

The Russian vessels were reportedly transporting a large quantity of containers with military supplies between Russia and North Korea. This action is a clear violation of U.N. resolutions, according to a statement from the South Korean foreign ministry.

The United States and South Korea have accused North Korea of supplying weapons to Russia for use in the war in Ukraine. Both Moscow and Pyongyang deny these accusations but have committed to strengthening military relations.

One of the sanctioned North Koreans is linked to a state-controlled company in Syria and held negotiations with a Russian from the Wagner Group to promote arms trade between 2022 and 2023. This information comes from an annual report by a U.N. panel monitoring North Korea.

Another individual, working at a company based in Russia, facilitated the import of diesel from Russia to North Korea. Both individuals are accused of violating U.N. Security Council resolutions.

The other five sanctioned North Koreans are accused of raising funds to support North Korea's nuclear and missile programs. They reportedly earned foreign currency by working as IT professionals abroad.

Last month, Russia criticized South Korea's sanctions on its individuals and entities, calling it an "unfriendly move" and warning of a forthcoming response.

In a related development, the U.N. panel of experts monitoring North Korea sanctions failed to extend its mandate earlier this year. This failure was due to a veto by Russia, prompting the United States and its allies to explore alternative measures.

These sanctions by South Korea reflect ongoing tensions and the international community's efforts to curb North Korea's military activities and its support for Russia amid the Ukraine conflict.