A landmark defense treaty between North Korea and Russia, signed in June by leaders Kim Jong Un and Vladimir Putin, has officially come into effect, marking a major shift in global alliances as the two nations deepen military cooperation. The pact was formalized on Wednesday after an exchange of ratification documents in Moscow, state-run KCNA news agency reported.
This agreement obligates both nations to provide immediate military assistance in the event of an attack on the other and pledges joint opposition to Western sanctions. Its activation comes amid heightened accusations from the United States and South Korea that North Korea has sent over 10,000 troops to support Russia’s war efforts in Ukraine—an allegation that could redefine Pyongyang’s role in the global geopolitical arena.
Details of the Treaty
The defense pact, signed during Putin’s rare visit to Pyongyang, underscores an evolving strategic partnership between two nations increasingly isolated by the West. The treaty was described by Kim Jong Un as pivotal for promoting an “independent and just multi-polarized world order” free from Western “domination and hegemony,” according to KCNA.
The agreement passed through Russia’s parliament unanimously and was later ratified by Putin. In North Korea, Kim Jong Un expedited its formalization through a presidential decree.
Military and Technological Aspirations
Experts believe North Korea’s leader seeks more than just political symbolism from this alliance. The defense treaty offers Pyongyang a chance to acquire advanced Russian military technology and gain critical battlefield experience for its troops.
This military realignment appears to be part of a broader shift in North Korea’s foreign policy, as analysts suggest Pyongyang is leveraging the Ukraine conflict to solidify its status as a major player in the Russian war economy. With its substantial contributions of weapons, manpower, and labor, North Korea may even aim to reduce its dependency on its traditional ally, China.
Strengthened Military Ties Since Ukraine Invasion
The defense pact builds on a growing relationship between Moscow and Pyongyang that has intensified since Russia’s invasion of Ukraine in February 2022. Both countries are heavily sanctioned by the United Nations—North Korea for its nuclear weapons program and Russia for its aggression in Ukraine—creating fertile ground for mutual support.
Last week, Russian Defence Minister Andrei Belousov visited Pyongyang, where Kim Jong Un reaffirmed North Korea’s unwavering support for Russia’s policies to “defend its sovereignty and territorial integrity.”
International Concerns and Strategic Implications
The treaty’s activation has raised alarm in Washington and Seoul, with accusations of North Korean troop deployment amplifying concerns over Pyongyang’s increasing militarization. If confirmed, the reported 10,000 soldiers aiding Russia in Ukraine would signal an unprecedented level of direct involvement by North Korea in an international conflict.
Analysts warn that the pact could also allow North Korea to bypass its reliance on China and establish itself as a key military and economic ally for Moscow. This move could disrupt existing power dynamics in Northeast Asia and further strain global relations.
Putin’s Vision and the Road Ahead
Hailing the pact as a “breakthrough document,” Putin emphasized its significance in June, reflecting the Kremlin’s reliance on unconventional alliances as it battles international isolation. The treaty’s activation could also serve as a test for how far Russia and North Korea are willing to push their partnership in defiance of Western pressure.
As both nations face increasing scrutiny and sanctions, this historic pact not only reshapes their bilateral relationship but also challenges the balance of power on the global stage, introducing new risks and uncertainties in an already volatile geopolitical climate.