SEOUL, June 19 – Russian President Vladimir Putin and North Korean leader Kim Jong Un signed a mutual defense pact on Wednesday, marking a major shift in Russia’s stance towards North Korea. This agreement, described by Kim as an “alliance,” signifies Russia’s most significant move in Asia in recent years.
The deal arrives as the United States and its Asian allies closely monitor Russia’s increasing support for North Korea, the only country to have tested a nuclear weapon in the 21st century. The comprehensive strategic partnership pact includes a clause for mutual defense in case of aggression against either nation.
During his first visit to Pyongyang since 2000, Putin tied the deepening Russia-North Korea relationship to the West’s escalating support for Ukraine. He mentioned the possibility of expanding military and technical cooperation with Pyongyang in response to Western actions.
“The comprehensive partnership agreement signed today provides, among other things, for mutual assistance in the event of aggression against one of the parties to this agreement,” Putin declared. He also criticized the West for supplying advanced weaponry, including F-16 fighters, to Ukraine, claiming these actions breach major agreements.
