Moscow: Russian President Vladimir Putin has officially ratified a landmark military and strategic partnership treaty with North Korea, pledging mutual military support if either nation faces an armed attack. The treaty, signed earlier this year in June during Putin’s visit to North Korea, has now been fully approved by the Russian parliament and is seen as a significant step in the evolving alliance between Moscow and Pyongyang.
State media outlet Tass reported on Saturday that Putin signed the law ratifying the comprehensive strategic partnership treaty. The bill, which was submitted to the Russian State Duma for approval in mid-October, was swiftly passed by both the lower and upper houses of the Russian parliament. This agreement reinforces the growing military and political cooperation between the two countries, particularly in the context of the ongoing conflict in Ukraine.
The treaty’s preamble emphasizes the shared interests of Russia and North Korea, stating that the document contributes to fostering peace, regional stability, and global security. A crucial provision within the treaty commits both nations to provide military and other forms of support without delay if either is subjected to an armed attack, in full accordance with Article 51 of the United Nations Charter. This sets the foundation for even deeper military integration between the two countries, with potential global implications.
Since the start of the war in Ukraine in February 2022, Russia and North Korea have significantly increased their military collaboration, with North Korea allegedly supplying weapons and ammunition to bolster Russia’s efforts. This military alliance has now culminated in the deployment of approximately 10,000 North Korean soldiers to Russian territory, many of whom have been sent to the Kursk region, a focal point of the conflict. U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken confirmed these reports during a joint press conference with U.S. Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin and South Korean officials.
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Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy confirmed that North Korean troops have engaged in combat with Ukrainian forces, marking a significant escalation in the war. According to Zelenskyy, an estimated 11,000 North Korean soldiers are stationed in Russia’s Kursk region, with many deployed to frontline positions. This information was corroborated by South Korea’s Defense Ministry, which stated that 10,000 North Korean troops have been mobilized in Russia, contributing to the intensification of the conflict.
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The growing military alliance between Russia and North Korea signals a bold strategic shift in the geopolitical landscape, with both nations bolstering their military capabilities and cooperation in the face of international sanctions and isolation. The treaty solidifies Russia’s relationship with North Korea as a key partner in its fight against Ukraine and its broader confrontation with the West.
As the war in Ukraine continues, the implications of this expanded military collaboration between Russia and North Korea are far-reaching, particularly as the two nations prepare for potential further escalation.
