The diplomat stated that there is a vicious circle, as the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea (DPRK) is forced to respond to the US actions, which are characterized by tightening sanctions against Pyongyang, Sputnik reported.

Although the DPRK has taken several measures to normalize the situation, such as dismantling several tunnels at the Punggye-ri Nuclear Test Site, the other side has maintained sanctions and military exercises, Ilyichev said.

His remarks came a day after South Korea and the United States began their regular 12-day drill, Korea Flying Training.

At the same time, South Korea, the United States, and Japan began a trilateral missile defense exercise in the international waters of the East Sea (Sea of Japan) on Monday.

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