Seoul: North Korean leader Kim Jong-un has officially ratified a defense pact with Russia, marking a significant development in the relationship between the two nations. This announcement comes as North Korean troops have been deployed to Russia to support Moscow's ongoing invasion of Ukraine. According to Yonhap News Agency, the treaty, described as a "comprehensive strategic partnership," was ratified as a decree by Kim Jong-un and is set to take effect following the exchange of ratification instruments between both countries. The agreement, initially signed in June by Kim and Russian President Vladimir Putin in Pyongyang, includes a clause for mutual military assistance should either nation face an attack. The ratification signifies a deepening of military ties between North Korea and Russia, with Russia's news agency TASS reporting that President Putin signed the pact last Saturday. Since the agreement was established in June, both countries have significantly bolstered their military partnership. The United States has confirmed the deployment of approximately 10,000 North Korean troops to Russia's western front-line Kursk region, hinting at potential combat involvement against Ukrainian forces. This move, coupled with the finalization of the defense treaty, has led to increased speculation regarding North Korea's active military engagement in the conflict. An official from South Korea's unification ministry mentioned the likelihood of a formal ceremony for the exchange of ratification documents, potentially involving high-ranking officials from both nations. Additionally, a recent report by TASS highlighted President Putin's suggestion of possible joint military exercises between Russia and North Korea, indicating further strengthening of their military collaboration.
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