Russian President Vladimir Putin has officially ratified a landmark defence pact with North Korea, solidifying an alliance that pledges mutual military assistance and opposition to Western sanctions.
Initially agreed upon during Putin’s visit to North Korea in June, the pact required parliamentary approval and was signed by the Kremlin leader on Saturday evening, according to a statement on the Kremlin’s website.
The agreement intensifies months of strengthening security ties between Moscow and Pyongyang, allies since the Cold War. Both nations are committed to providing immediate military assistance should either be attacked or to coordinating stances at the United Nations.
North Korea has emerged as a key supporter of Russia’s offensive in Ukraine, with intelligence from South Korea and Western sources indicating Pyongyang has reportedly sent around 10,000 troops to aid Russia. When questioned on the alleged troop deployments, Putin neither confirmed nor denied the reports but instead deflected to criticise Western involvement in Ukraine.
Putin has hailed the defence pact as a breakthrough document, signalling a deepening military relationship as both countries navigate mounting Western sanctions and global diplomatic isolation.