North Korea’s Affirmation of Support for Russia Amid Ongoing Conflict in Ukraine
North Korean leader Kim Jong Un reaffirmed his support for Russia’s war in Ukraine during talks with Sergei Shoigu. They discussed mutual defense agreements and the security situation in the region. Reports indicate North Korea is sending additional troops to support Russia, while Kim seeks military and economic benefits from this alliance.
North Korean leader Kim Jong Un recently expressed strong support for Russia’s ongoing military efforts in Ukraine during discussions with Sergei Shoigu, the Secretary of Russia’s Security Council, in Pyongyang. This meeting, reported by North Korean state media, underscores the collaboration between the two nations amidst shifting geopolitical landscapes. It follows recent intelligence reports suggesting that North Korea has sent additional troops to assist Russian forces as they face substantial losses on the battlefield.
The dialogue between Kim and Shoigu covered a range of issues, including the war in Ukraine, the ongoing communications between Moscow and the Trump administration, and security matters concerning the Korean Peninsula. Both leaders reiterated their commitment to a mutual defense treaty established during a summit last year, which guarantees mutual support against acts of aggression.
During the meeting, Kim assured that North Korea would “invariably support Russia in the struggle for defending national sovereignty,” reiterating his nation’s solidarity with Russian interests. Shoigu conveyed a message from President Vladimir Putin, expressing gratitude for North Korea’s alignment with Russia’s geopolitical stance, particularly regarding Ukraine. However, the discussions did not yield any new agreements before Shoigu’s departure from Pyongyang.
North Korea has been providing substantial military support to Russia, including an estimated 10,000 to 12,000 troops. Recent assessments from South Korean intelligence indicate North Korea could be deploying an additional 1,000 to 3,000 soldiers to Russia. Observers suggest that North Korea’s increasing military support may be an effort to secure further economic and military aid from Russia.
Shoigu’s visit may also lay the groundwork for a potential visit by Kim to Russia, as Putin had previously extended such an invitation during a prior summit. In their most recent meeting, both leaders focused on enhancing bilateral cooperation, suggesting a continued commitment to their alliance.
On the same day, Kim supervised the testing of new anti-aircraft missile systems, which he characterized as a significant enhancement to North Korea’s defense capabilities. This missile launch was part of North Korea’s broader response to joint military exercises conducted by the US and South Korea, which it perceives as provocations. Such military displays are viewed by North Korea as necessary assertiveness against perceived threats from these allied forces.
In summary, North Korean leader Kim Jong Un’s affirmation of support for Russia’s military actions in Ukraine highlights the strong partnership between North Korea and Russia. This collaboration may also serve as a strategic advantage for North Korea, which seeks to gain military and economic benefits amid ongoing conflicts. The developments suggest that both nations are keen on reinforcing their alliance to counteract external pressures and maintain mutual security interests.
Original Source: www.channelnewsasia.com
