Putin and Kim Forge Alliance Against Common 'Aggression'
In a significant geopolitical development, Vladimir Putin and Kim Jong Un have signed an agreement committing Russia and North Korea to mutual assistance in the face of “aggression” against either nation. This announcement followed Putin’s grand visit to Pyongyang, marking his first trip to the North Korean capital since 2000. Kim hailed the pact as elevating their relationship to “a new, high level of alliance.”
Observers note that this pact solidifies a burgeoning partnership that has raised alarms in the West and could have profound global implications. The mutual defense agreement hints at potential military cooperation, with Russia possibly aiding North Korea in a future Korean Peninsula conflict and North Korea supporting Russia in its ongoing war in Ukraine.
There are already allegations of North Korea supplying weapons to Russia and speculation about Russia providing space technology to enhance North Korea’s missile program. The leaders last convened in Russia in September, discussing military cooperation and possibly striking an arms deal. Recent reports suggest that North Korean missiles are being used in Ukraine.
As tensions escalate, the United States and NATO have recently authorized Ukraine to use Western weapons on Russian soil, a move Kyiv hopes will shift the conflict in its favor. In response, Putin has hinted at arming Western adversaries with long-range weapons, an area where North Korea has made significant strides. He condemned the West’s actions as violations of international norms and criticized sanctions on Russia and North Korea, vowing to resist Western “hegemony.”
Kim expressed strong support for Russia’s actions in Ukraine, describing their new treaty as a historic milestone. The agreement is expected to anger Seoul, with South Korea’s National Security Adviser Chang Ho-jin warning Russia to consider its future relations with both Koreas post-Ukraine conflict.
Rachel Lee of the Stimson Center emphasized the global ramifications of this alliance, particularly concerning weapons proliferation. Chad O’Carroll from NK News suggested that the treaty might lead to North Korean military support for Russia in Ukraine.
Putin’s visit to Pyongyang was marked by elaborate ceremonies, beginning with a late-night arrival and a red-carpet welcome from Kim. The capital was brightly lit, an unusual sight in a country plagued by power shortages. The welcoming ceremony featured synchronized police escorts, cheering crowds waving Russian flags, and North Korean propaganda displays.
At Kim Il Sung Square, named after North Korea’s founder, a meticulously choreographed event awaited Putin. Crowds in the square released balloons, and children dressed in white greeted the Russian leader. Putin and Kim inspected goose-stepping soldiers against the backdrop of large portraits of themselves.
The visit included a gala concert, state reception, and a banquet with traditional Korean dishes. Before departing for Vietnam, Putin presented Kim with a luxury Aurus car, a ceremonial admiral’s dagger, and a tea set, while Kim gifted Putin artworks featuring his likeness.
Putin’s previous visit to Pyongyang was in 2000, shortly after he assumed office, to meet Kim Jong Un’s father, Kim Jong Il. North Korea’s economy has since worsened under sanctions, and Kim Jong Un is believed to have sought critical aid from Russia, including food, fuel, and technology.
During Kim’s visit to Russia last September, Putin promised to assist North Korea with its satellite program, which the US suspects is a front for advancing ballistic missile capabilities. Analysts suggest both leaders are aiming to mitigate the impact of international sanctions by fostering an alternative network of allies, challenging the US-led global order and promoting a multipolar world.
