North Korean state media reported on Thursday that a new agreement between Russia and North Korea, reached during a summit in Pyongyang, requires both countries to provide immediate military assistance in the event of war. The deal, described by leaders Kim Jong Un and Vladimir Putin as a major upgrade of bilateral relations, covers security, trade, investment, cultural, and humanitarian ties.
The comprehensive strategic partnership agreement includes a provision stating that if one country is invaded and pushed into a state of war, the other must deploy all available means to provide military and other assistance in accordance with international laws.
The summit between Kim and Putin has raised concerns among the U.S. and its allies regarding a potential arms arrangement between Pyongyang and Moscow. The agreement was hailed by Kim as their strongest-ever treaty, elevating the relationship to the level of an alliance, with both leaders expressing a desire to enhance their ties.
The agreement also prohibits the countries from entering into agreements with third parties that infringe on each other's core interests and calls for joint efforts to strengthen defense capabilities to prevent war and protect regional peace and security.
The deal comes as tensions on the Korean Peninsula are at their highest point in years, with both sides engaging in military exercises and psychological warfare. The agreement between Russia and North Korea signals a shift in geopolitical dynamics and a united front against common adversaries.
