The independence of the pro-Russian separatist so-called Donetsk People’s Republic and Luhansk People’s Republic in eastern Ukraine was officially recognized by North Korea after Syria. North Korea’s Ambassador to Moscow Shin Hong-Chul presented Donetsk’s Ambassador to Moscow Olga Makeyeva the document confirming that North Korea officially recognized the Donetsk People’s Republic. At the same time, a notification was made that North Korea officially recognized the other separatist region, Luhansk.
“A IMPORTANT STEP”
Donetsk’s Ambassador to Moscow Makeyeva announced that efforts will be initiated to increase relations between the two countries and to open an embassy. The so-called Donetsk People’s Republic President Denis Pushilin said in a statement to the Russian press, “I would like to thank North Korea’s Donetsk people for this important support. This political decision is an important step towards the development of bilateral relations. The international status and state structure of the Donetsk People’s Republic continues to strengthen. This is another victory for our diplomacy. This political decision will be the basis for the further development of relations in the economic sphere. Bilateral partnership will increase the geography of trade for the businesses of our states. I am confident that an effective and productive cooperation awaits us.”
HARD REACTION FROM UKRAINE
This step of North Korea angered Ukraine. In a statement made by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Ukraine, it was reported that the decision to recognize the so-called “independence” of the Donetsk and Luhansk regions occupied by Russia by North Korea was strongly condemned.
ZELENSKIY EXPLAINED
In the statement, it was noted that Pyongyang’s attempt against Ukraine’s sovereignty and territorial integrity constitutes a grave violation of the United Nations Convention and basic norms and principles of international law. It was stated that diplomatic relations with North Korea were cut in response to an unfriendly act.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy said in a statement on his Telegram account that they “will react very strongly at all levels” to North Korea’s decision. (AA-UAV)