Kim meets Shoigu, backs Russia on Ukraine
North Korean state media reported that leader Kim Jong Un met with Sergei Shoigu, Russia's Security Council Secretary, in Pyongyang. During the meeting at the Workers’ Party of Korea Central Committee headquarters, Kim expressed unconditional support for Russia's stance on Ukraine and other international issues. The discussions emphasized strengthening the comprehensive strategic partnership between the two nations, reinforcing cooperation across various fields.
This meeting builds on previous high-level interactions, notably a treaty signed during Russian President Vladimir Putin's visit to Pyongyang last year. That treaty includes a mutual defense pact, committing both countries to provide immediate military assistance to one another in the event of armed aggression. In the context of this alliance, North Korea has reportedly stationed around 13,000 troops to support Russian operations in Ukraine, particularly in the Kursk region.
The cooperation between North Korea and Russia has also facilitated a significant exchange of military equipment. North Korea has supplied Russia with arms such as ballistic missiles, artillery, and rocket launchers, which have been reportedly used in assaults on Ukrainian cities. Conversely, Russia has provided North Korea with military hardware that includes air defense systems and electronic warfare equipment.
This expanding military and diplomatic collaboration has raised international concerns over potential violations of UN sanctions and the broader implications for regional and global security. Observers note that the deepening ties between Pyongyang and Moscow may further complicate ongoing conflicts and diplomatic efforts, drawing heightened scrutiny from the global community.
