"As a responsible member of the Missile Technology Control Regime, the Russian Federation is not involved in any cooperation that would oppose its principles," a foreign ministry statement quoted Ivanov as saying.

"We do not make any exceptions, including for our neighbor North Korea," he said.

The comments came in response to news reports earlier in the week that Russia was helping Pyongyang to develop a ballistic missile capable of striking the United States.

"The appearance of such disinformation is not contributing to the goals of ensuring peace, stability and safety on the Korean peninsula," Ivanov said.

The MTCR is an informal arrangement among 33 nations that aims to stem the spread of ballistic and cruise missiles.

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