North Korean leader Kim Jong Un has reaffirmed North Korea’s unwavering support for Russia’s military actions in Ukraine during a meeting with Russia’s defense delegation, according to reports from the North’s state media.
A Russian military delegation, led by Defense Minister Andrei Belousov, arrived in North Korea for discussions amid growing international concerns about the strengthening ties between the two nations. These developments follow North Korea’s recent dispatch of thousands of troops to Russia, marking an intensification in their military cooperation.
The Korean Central News Agency (KCNA) reported that Kim and Belousov reached a “satisfactory consensus” on enhancing their strategic partnership. They emphasized the importance of defending each country’s sovereignty and security interests in response to the rapidly evolving global security landscape. Kim assured that North Korea would consistently support Russia’s efforts to uphold its sovereignty and territorial integrity against what they perceive as NATO’s “reckless” expansion.
The North Korean leader criticized a recent U.S. decision allowing Ukraine to attack Russian targets with long-range missiles provided by the U.S., describing it as a direct interference in the conflict. He also endorsed recent Russian military strikes in Ukraine, stating they demonstrated Russia’s determination.
Analysts from the U.S., Ukraine, and South Korea estimate that over 10,000 North Korean troops have been sent to Russia, some of whom are reportedly engaged in frontline combat. Additionally, these sources claim that North Korea has supplied artillery, missiles, and other conventional weapons to bolster Russia’s dwindling arsenal. However, both North Korea and Russia have consistently denied these reports regarding troop movements and arms shipments.
Concerns have been raised by South Korea, the U.S., and their partners that Russia might reciprocate North Korea’s support with advanced military technology, potentially aiding in the development of more sophisticated nuclear missiles. South Korean national security adviser Shin Wonsik suggested that Russia might have provided air defense missile systems to North Korea, alongside economic assistance and military technologies crucial for developing space-based surveillance capabilities.
During the visit, Defense Minister Belousov also met with North Korean Defense Minister No Kwang Chol. Belousov highlighted the significance of the partnership between the two nations as a defense against external aggression and arbitrary actions by other global powers. This follows a treaty signed in June by Kim and Russian President Putin, committing both countries to offer immediate military assistance in the event of an attack, representing their most significant defense agreement since the Cold War.
The ongoing collaboration between North Korea and Russia marks a significant geopolitical development, as both nations fortify their alliance amidst global tensions. This partnership raises critical questions about the balance of power and the consequences of such alliances on international peace and security.
Source: WSVN
