Russian President Dmitry Medvedev has suggested that Russia may back U.N. economic sanctions against North Korea for its recent nuclear test.

Medvedev told U.S. broadcaster CNBC on Wednesday that Moscow has always maintained good relations with Pyongyang, but that North Korea’s moves to become recognized as a nuclear state are a major concern.

The Russian president also said that he hopes North Korea will return to the negotiating table.

Russia had been taking a stance that it is premature to discuss sanctions against the North.