The Russian parliament has officially ratified a mutual defence treaty with North Korea, solidifying a significant military cooperation between the two countries. The State Duma, the lower house of parliament, voted 397-0 in favour of endorsing the treaty, which involves a “comprehensive strategic partnership” agreement. This treaty, signed by Russian President Vladimir Putin and North Korean leader Kim Jong-un during a visit to Pyongyang in June, requires both nations to provide immediate military assistance using all available means if either country is attacked.
This move marks the strongest military alliance between Moscow and Pyongyang since the Cold War era. State Duma speaker Vyacheslav Volodin highlighted the importance of fostering comprehensive and allied relations with North Korea. The ratified treaty will now progress to the upper house of the parliament for final validation.
Reports suggest that North Korea is already providing military support to Russia. South Korea, Ukraine and the US have all indicated that Pyongyang has deployed around 3,000 soldiers to aid Russia’s war efforts. Speculation arose after US Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin mentioned the presence of North Korean troops in Russia, raising concerns about their role in the conflict.
South Korea’s National Intelligence Service revealed that North Korean soldiers, including special forces, had been sent to the Russian far east for training and acclimatisation at bases in preparation for potential combat deployment. These troops were reportedly equipped with Russian military gear, weapons and false identification documents.
Earlier claims by South Korea alleged that the Russian Navy had transported 1,500 North Korean special forces soldiers to support Russia’s activities in Ukraine. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky also expressed concerns about intelligence indicating North Korea’s preparations to send 10,000 soldiers to fight alongside Russian forces.
White House national security spokesperson John F. Kirby confirmed that North Korean troops were transported to Vladivostok in Russia and subsequently deployed to training grounds. He warned that if North Korean soldiers engage in combat against Ukraine, they will be considered legitimate targets for defense by the Ukrainian military.
In summary, the Russian parliament’s ratification of the mutual defence treaty with North Korea signifies a significant development in military collaboration between the two nations. The implications of this alliance, coupled with the reported deployment of North Korean troops in support of Russian activities, raise concerns about the evolving dynamics of the ongoing conflicts involving these countries.