"For the Republic of Korea, these actions pose a serious threat, as North Korean troops are gaining combat experience, which could present additional security challenges in the region in the future," Defense Minister Rustem Umerov said following his visit to South Korea.

In this volatile and extremely uncertain landscape, South Korea has little to gain and much to lose by taking premature action that might harm its national interests.

Pyongyang's support has become crucial between the two countries, as Kim Jong Un assists Moscow in replenishing its stockpiles of weapons.​