Biden, who sanctioned Russia, says "North Korea nuclear issue is open to cooperation"

Retaliation for Hacking Interference in US Elections
Possibility of Cooperation on International Security Issues
Russia: "Destructive Consequences for Bilateral Relations"

[Image source=AP Yonhap News]

[Asia Economy Reporter Kim Suhwan] U.S. President Joe Biden announced that while implementing large-scale sanctions in retaliation for Russia's hacking attacks, there remains room for cooperation on issues where both countries need to act together, such as North Korea's nuclear problem.

On the 15th (local time), President Biden, during a press conference held immediately after implementing sanctions against Russia at the White House, stated, "If Russia continues to threaten our democracy, we will not hesitate to take additional measures," but also said, "Now is the time to ease tensions."

On the same day, the U.S. imposed sanctions on 32 Russian individuals and entities in retaliation for Russia's hacking attacks on U.S. companies and government agencies during last year's U.S. presidential election period, which interfered with the election. Additionally, 10 personnel from the Russian Embassy in the U.S. were expelled.

Along with this, the U.S. banned its financial institutions from purchasing or trading Russian bonds in the primary market. A government official explained the background of this measure, saying, "If U.S. investors exit the primary market, the ripple effect will be significant," adding, "This will increase Russia's debt costs and induce weakness in the ruble."

However, President Biden expressed that he does not want a deterioration in bilateral relations and left open the possibility of cooperation on the North Korean nuclear issue. On this day, President Biden emphasized, "Through strategic cooperation with Russia, we expect to ensure international security and jointly respond to issues requiring cooperation with Russia," and added, "Security issues arising from North Korea's nuclear problem are also areas where we can cooperate with Russia."

Earlier, on the 13th, President Biden had proposed holding a summit during a phone call with Russian President Vladimir Putin.

Russian authorities stated that the U.S. sanctions would "bring destructive consequences to bilateral relations" and announced they would retaliate.

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.