North Korea has denied allegations that it is deploying troops to support Russia’s war in Ukraine, dismissing the claims as “groundless” rumors aimed at damaging its image and bilateral relations with Russia.

Addressing a meeting of the U.N. General Assembly’s First Committee on disarmament on Monday, a DPRK representative rejected concerns raised by other countries after South Korea reported last week that it observed North Korean troops being sent to Russia.

“My delegation does not feel any need to comment on groundless, stereotyped rumors aimed at smearing the image of the DPRK and undermining the legitimate, friendly and cooperative relations