DP expresses understanding of military's noncommittal position on N. Korea's drone claims

SEOUL, Oct. 15 (Yonhap) -- The main opposition Democratic Party (DP) on Tuesday expressed understanding of the military's decision to neither confirm nor deny North Korea's claims the South had sent drones over Pyongyang, saying the issue should be dealt with prudently.

The position represents a softening of criticism after the party had initially slammed the military's vague response to the North's accusations, saying such an attitude is an "irresponsible" act that "disrespects the people."

The DP came up with the new position after its committee on national security held its inaugural meeting.

"Our position is that we should take a prudent approach rather than determining who did what," Rep. Park Sun-won, a participant in the committee meeting, told reporters. "Since the United Nations Command is also looking into the situation, communication between North and South Korea through this channel will help stabilize the situation."

On Friday, the North claimed the South had sent drones into the skies over Pyongyang three times this month alone, warning of "a horrible disaster" if the South sends more drones into the North.

South Korea's Joint Chiefs of Staff has also neither confirmed nor denied the claim.

julesyi@yna.co.kr
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