China and Russia proposed Monday that the United Nations Security Council lift a ban on North Korea exporting statues, seafood and textiles, and ease restrictions on infrastructure projects and North Koreans working overseas, according to Reuters.
China and Russia's proposal increases pressure on the United States and signals what is the likely end of unified efforts to persuade Pyongyang to give up its growing nuclear and missile arsenal.
The plan comes at a crucial moment - just weeks before the deadline set by North Korea for Washington to offer more concessions - and highlights deepening divisions over how to engage with North Korea.
Russia and China, both wielding veto power on the Security Council, were key votes in imposing the sanctions in recent years under the "maximum pressure" campaign championed by U.S. President Donald Trump's administration.