South Korea Denies Sending Drones into North Korea, Citing No Evidence of MilitaryInvolvement
Seoul, South Korea – The South Korean Ministry of National Defense hascategorically denied allegations made by North Korea that Seoul sent drones into Pyongyang, stating that the military has not conducted any such operations.
Defense Minister Kim Yong-hyun, appearing before the National Assembly’s Military Court on October 11, responded to questions about the North Korean claims by stating, The military has notengaged in such activities. Therefore, I am not aware of the details and will conduct a thorough investigation.
A spokesperson for the Joint Chiefs of Staff echoed this sentiment, stating that the military has not deployed drones into North Korea and willinvestigate whether any civilian organizations might be involved.
The North Korean Foreign Ministry issued a strong statement earlier in the day, accusing South Korea of a grave political and military provocation by sending drones into Pyongyang. The statement claimed that South Korean droneshad disseminated anti-North Korean leaflets on September 3, 9, and 10, and released images allegedly taken by thermal imaging equipment, showing objects resembling drones.
The images released by North Korea have been met with skepticism by South Korean officials, who have called for further investigation into the authenticity of the claims.
This latest exchange of accusations comes amid heightened tensions on the Korean Peninsula, with both sides engaging in a series of military exercises and rhetoric.
Further Investigation and Potential Implications
The South Korean government has pledged to investigate the matter thoroughly, including examining any potential civilian drone activity that might have occurred.
Theincident raises concerns about the potential for escalation of tensions between the two Koreas, particularly given the recent increase in military activity and rhetoric.
The international community is closely monitoring the situation, with calls for both sides to exercise restraint and pursue dialogue to de-escalate tensions.
References:
- Yonhap News Agency. (2024, October 11). South Korea Denies Sending Drones into North Korea. Retrieved from [Link to original article]
- North Korean Foreign Ministry. (2024, October 11). Statement on South Korean Drone Incursions. Retrieved from [Link to original statement]
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