Russian President Vladimir Putin signed a mutual defense agreement with North Korean leader Kim Jong Un on Wednesday during a summit in Pyongyang, marking his first visit to North Korea in 24 years. Kim expressed his “full support” for Russia’s actions in Ukraine.
The strategic treaty includes a pledge for mutual assistance in case of aggression against either country. Putin called it a “breakthrough document,” emphasizing the deepening alliance between Russia and North Korea, which has strengthened since Russia’s 2022 invasion of Ukraine.
The United States and its allies have accused North Korea of supplying ammunition and missiles to Russia for its war in Ukraine. This new agreement is likely to heighten those concerns. Putin mentioned that military-technical cooperation with North Korea could be part of the treaty, further fueling these worries.
Kim praised Putin as the “dearest friend of the Korean people” and reaffirmed North Korea’s solidarity with Russia. In return, Putin thanked Kim for his unwavering support, criticizing Western sanctions on both countries and calling for a review of UN sanctions on North Korea.
“Today, we are fighting together against the hegemonism and neo-colonial practices of the United States and its satellites,” Putin said, suggesting a united front against Western pressures.
Following the summit, Putin traveled to Vietnam for a state visit. Upon his arrival in Pyongyang, Kim greeted him with an elaborate ceremony that included a military band and synchronized dancing. The two leaders visited an Orthodox Church and discussed their shared goals during a private meeting.
This summit marks their second meeting within a year. In September, Kim visited Russia’s Far East for discussions at a spaceport. Both leaders have emphasized that their countries’ ties have reached new heights, describing the treaty as vital for regional peace and stability.
The US State Department expressed concern over the deepening cooperation between Russia and North Korea, warning that it threatens peace and stability on the Korean Peninsula. Mykhailo Podolyak, a senior aide to Ukraine’s President Volodymyr Zelensky, accused North Korea of aiding Russia’s aggression and called for greater international isolation of both nations.
Experts suggest that Russia’s actions will undermine the sanctions regime on North Korea, complicating international efforts to maintain stability in the region. Putin’s visit to Vietnam underscores Russia’s strategy to strengthen its influence in Northeast Asia and counter US presence in the area.