Russian MFA Spokesman Andrei Nesterenko Commentary Regarding a Media Question about Situation on Korean Peninsula

Question: On March 9, a spokesman for the General Staff of the Korean People's Army issued a very tough statement over the kick-off of the US-South Korean military exercises Key Resolve and Foal Eagle. The demonstration of rejection of these drills is supplemented with warnings of the adamant intention to launch an artificial Earth satellite (AES) and with threats to retaliate if anyone tries to shoot it down. How could you comment on this situation?

Answer: Frankly speaking, we are certainly worried about the escalation of tension on and around the Korean Peninsula, attended by a number of factors. The DPRK decision to launch an AES has been received with concern by some countries as a veiled attempt to test a long-range ballistic missile. At the same time the DPRK pointedly reacts to the US-South Korean military exercises that began a few days ago. Confrontational rhetoric is being whipped up. Particularly alarming are plans being discussed in some countries to destroy the North Korean carrier rocket immediately after its launch, and the warning of Pyongyang that it will retaliate against such actions. In our view, that explosive escalation may have perilous consequences.

Hence we call on all the states involved to end hostile rhetoric and refrain from any actions capable to undermine security in that region. We are certain that all issues between them should be tackled solely by peaceful, politico-diplomatic means, through consultations and talks.

Russia intends to continue to closely watch further developments in the current complicated situation on the Korean Peninsula, while maintaining close contacts and coordinating actions with all concerned countries.

March 10, 2009