New york: South Korea's top envoy to the United Nations has openly criticized North Korea's decision to send troops to Russia, stating that these soldiers will effectively be used as "cannon fodder." Ambassador Hwang Joon-kook's remarks came during a United Nations Security Council session, following South Korea's confirmation of North Korean troop deployment to Russia's western region near the Ukraine border. According to Yonhap News Agency, Ambassador Hwang emphasized that the wages intended for these troops will ultimately benefit North Korean leader Kim Jong-un. He condemned Pyongyang's actions, stating, "Pyongyang's treatment of its young soldiers, its own people, as expendable will be never forgiven." Hwang argued that the North's military support to Moscow violates multiple UNSC resolutions and will impact geopolitical dynamics across Eurasia. Additionally, Hwang stressed that South Korea, in collaboration with the international community, plans to respond decisively to the unlawful Russia-DPRK milit ary cooperation. He indicated that corresponding measures will be implemented, depending on future developments. DPRK, the Democratic People's Republic of Korea, is North Korea's official name. Robert Wood, the deputy U.S. ambassador to the U.N., also voiced concerns, highlighting the potential for a serious escalation in the conflict. He stated that the deployment of North Korean soldiers would signify Russia's increasing desperation amid substantial casualties. Wood further warned about the global risks posed by Russia's growing military dependence on Iran and the DPRK. In contrast, Kim Song, North Korea's ambassador to the U.N., defended his country's actions, asserting that both North Korea and Russia have the right to develop relations in various sectors, including military and economic, under their strategic partnership agreement. He indicated that North Korea might take necessary actions if Russia's sovereignty is threatened by the United States and Western nations. Wood responded by warning that an y North Korean troops entering the battlefield in support of Russia would be targeted. He sternly stated, "Should DPRK's troops enter Ukraine in support of Russia, they will surely return in body bags."