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North Korean Apples Appear in Russian Supermarkets, Raising Sanctions Concerns
North Korean fruit has reportedly surfaced in Russian supermarkets, a development that has sparked condemnation from South Korea. According to Russian news outlet DVNovosti, apples from the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea (DPRK) were observed for sale at a Remi supermarket in Khabarovsk, a city situated on the Amur River in southeastern Russia. This commerce in agricultural imports has ignited controversy amid existing UN sanctions.
Consumer Reactions and Pricing
A local resident informed DVNovosti about purchasing the apples out of curiosity, noting their perceived “symbolic significance” in North Korea. The Times reported these apples were priced as the second most affordable variety in the store, costing 169 roubles (£1.55) per kilogram. Feedback from a Telegram user described the fruit as having an “attractive price” and a pleasing “sweet and sour” taste with a tender texture.
South Korea Flags Sanctions Violations
These pome fruits are believed to be part of an expanding assortment of products being exported to Russia from North Korea. However, Seoul asserts that these items are subject to sanctions imposed by the United Nations Security Council, of which Russia is a permanent member, specifically targeting DPRK agricultural imports.
Growing Ties Between Moscow and Pyongyang
Since the onset of Russia’s war in Ukraine in February 2022, marked by a full-scale invasion, Moscow and Pyongyang have strengthened their strategic and economic ties. This deepening relationship culminated in the signing of a “comprehensive partnership agreement” last summer, signaling closer collaboration.
Mutual Sanctions and Bilateral Cooperation
Both nations are currently under considerable international sanctions—North Korea due to its nuclear weapons and ballistic missile programs, and Russia in response to its aggression against Ukraine, as reported by Politico. The “comprehensive partnership agreement” between the two nations includes provisions for “mutual assistance in the event of aggression” and enhanced cooperation in sectors such as healthcare, education, and trade.
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Allegations of Military Support
Indicating closer collaboration, reports surfaced last year suggesting North Korea dispatched over 10,000 troops to fight in Kursk, a Russian region contested by Ukrainian forces, allegedly incurring significant casualties. Furthermore, Pyongyang faces accusations of supplying Russia with weaponry.
Russia’s Stance on Sanctions
President Putin has previously voiced objections to the sanctions imposed on both Russia and North Korea. He stated that both countries “do not tolerate blackmail” and intend to resist the use of “strangling sanctions” by the West, which he perceives as an attempt to maintain “hegemony,” according to BBC News.
Economic Lifeline for North Korea
Exports to Russia and the resulting foreign currency are considered a vital lifeline for North Korea, which is currently grappling with severe food shortages, as highlighted by The Times.
South Korea Urges Sanctions Adherence
A spokesperson for South Korea’s Ministry of Unification stated that “Since all edible fruits are included in the UN sanctions resolution, this case is also a violation of the resolution.”
“We reiterate that Russia, along with all UN member states, is obligated to adhere to the UN sanctions against North Korea,” the spokesperson emphasized.