MOSCOW(Associated Press) — Russian President Vladimir Putin has signed a decree on the implementation of the UN Security Council resolution on sanctions against the Democratic People's Republic of Korea (North Korea).
All legal entities and individuals within the jurisdiction of the Russian Federation are not allowed to transfer to North Korea war tanks, helicopters, planes, ships, armored machines, artillery systems, missile launchers, as well as materials that may be used for nuclear programs.
The training of specialists whose skills can be used for the production of mass destruction weapons is also forbidden, as well as entry into Russia of people responsible for encouragement and support of North Korea’s nuclear programs.
The decree lifts a ban on the import of luxury items from North Korea, including jewelry worth over RUR 50,000 (approx. $1,930.5), expensive wrist watches, perfumery products worth over RUR 5,000 (approx. $193), expensive fur items, alcoholic drinks, and cars worth over RUR 3 million (approx. $115,830).
The imposition of sanctions against North Korea is a sign of Russia’s consistent position on Korea’s nuclear program, says Mikhail Margelov, Chairman of the Federation Council Committee for International Affairs.
“ Russia has fully supported all provisions of the US Security Council resolution in the hope that Pyongyang will abandon its nuclear programs within the specified timeframe, and that progress is made in the six-party talks. But as there is no progress in sight, Russia is introducing the sanctions in accordance with the UN Security Council Resolution 1718.”
Margelov expressed hope that the economic and military blockade of North Korea will have a sobering effect on North Korean leaders, helping them to set priorities.
“The international community has made many steps towards Pyongyang, but it seems sanctions are needed to solve the problem,” he said, noting that Russia used its influence in the UN Security Council to lessen the impact of the sanctions on the life of North Korean people.
“It is important that the sanctions are aimed against the activities of services and persons responsible for nuclear programs. Part of ‘the axis of evil’, in U.S. terminology, North Korea has to reconsider its policy, choosing between self-isolation and a constructive dialog with the international community,” Margelov.
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