North Korea has ratified a landmark mutual defense treaty with Russia
The treaty follows reports that around 11,000 North Korean soldiers have been deployed to support Russia in its war against Ukraine
North Korea has ratified a significant mutual defense treaty with Russia, as reported by state media, heightening global concerns over the deepening military collaboration between Moscow and Pyongyang.
Kim Jong Un, leader of the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea, signed a decree on Monday to ratify the Treaty of Comprehensive Strategic Partnerships with Russia. According to North Korea’s official news agency, KCNA, the agreement will come into effect once both countries exchange ratification documents. Initially signed in Pyongyang on June 19 during a state visit by Russian President Vladimir Putin, the treaty commits each nation to provide immediate military support to the other using "all means" necessary in the event of “aggression” against either.
When the agreement was reached in June, Kim highlighted it as a step toward strengthening bilateral relations and likened the military pact to an "alliance" with Russia. Russia’s parliament ratified the treaty on November 6, amid months of increased security cooperation, including reported arms transfers from North Korea to Russia and the deployment of thousands of North Korean troops to aid Russia in the Ukraine conflict.
