North Korean and Russian leaders signed an accord on Wednesday that enhances their military collaboration, including a mutual defense commitment in case of an attack. North Korea’s Kim Jong Un referred to the new relationship as an “alliance.”
During a rare press conference following his meeting with President Vladimir Putin in Pyongyang, Kim announced the establishment of a “comprehensive strategic partnership,” which, according to Putin, includes defensive provisions.
“The comprehensive partnership agreement signed today provides, among other things, for mutual assistance in the event of aggression against one of the parties to this agreement,” stated Putin, marking his first visit to North Korea in 24 years.
This visit, which has the potential to redefine the long-standing relationship between Russia and North Korea, is being scrutinized by Seoul and Washington, both concerned about the strengthening military ties between the two nations.
China, North Korea’s primary political and economic ally and a growing partner for Moscow, has responded quietly.
Kim highlighted that the agreement would enhance cooperation in politics, economy, and defense, describing it as “strictly peace-loving and defensive” in its intent.
“Our two countries’ relations have been elevated to the new higher level of an alliance,” Kim declared.
At the summit’s outset, Kim voiced “unconditional support” for “all of Russia’s policies,” including “a full support and firm alliance” for Putin’s conflict in Ukraine.
Putin denounced the hegemonic and imperialist policies of the United States and its allies, as reported by Russian media.
“We highly appreciate your consistent and unwavering support for Russian policy, including in the Ukrainian direction,” Russian state news agency RIA quoted Putin during the initial discussions.
Following Russia’s comprehensive invasion of Ukraine in February 2022, which Moscow termed a “special military operation,” the country faced U.S.-led Western sanctions.
‘Unconditional Unwavering Support’
Putin, who had welcomed Kim at a summit in Russia’s Far East in September that hastened their military cooperation, received an extravagant reception in Pyongyang.
An honor guard featuring mounted soldiers and a large civilian crowd gathered at Kim Il Sung Square by the Taedong River in the capital. The display included children with balloons and massive portraits of the leaders, accompanied by national flags on the square’s main building.
Kim and Putin proceeded to the Kumsusan Palace for their summit discussions.
Kim emphasized the need for stronger strategic dialogue with Russia in light of the increasingly complex global security environment.
“And I want to reaffirm that we will unconditionally and unwaveringly support all of Russia’s policies,” Kim conveyed to Putin.
North Korea “expresses full support and solidarity to the Russian government, army and people in carrying out a special military operation in Ukraine to protect sovereignty, security interests, as well as territorial integrity,” he asserted.
Putin arrived at Pyongyang’s airport earlier in the day. Kim greeted him with an embrace, and the two shared “pent-up inmost thoughts” during their ride to the state guest house, as reported by North Korean state media.
North Korea’s state news agency KCNA described the partnership as a driving force for creating a new multi-polar world and hailed Putin’s visit as a testament to the strength and endurance of their friendship and unity.
Leveraging its closer ties with North Korea, Russia has sought to provoke Washington, while heavily sanctioned North Korea has secured political backing and promises of economic and trade support from Moscow.
The U.S. and its allies are concerned that Russia might assist North Korea’s missile and nuclear programs, which are prohibited by U.N. Security Council resolutions, and have accused Pyongyang of supplying ballistic missiles and artillery shells to Russia for use in Ukraine.
Both Moscow and Pyongyang have denied any weapons transfers.
‘Alternate Trade Mechanism’
Putin’s arrival in Pyongyang was delayed by hours, and he was greeted by Kim on the red carpet without the elaborate ceremony afforded to Chinese President Xi Jinping during his 2019 visit.
The leaders traveled in Putin’s Russian-made Aurus limousine to the Kumsusan State Guest House.
State media images displayed Pyongyang’s streets adorned with portraits of Putin, and the facade of the unfinished 101-story pyramid-shaped Ryugyong Hotel was illuminated with the message “Welcome Putin.”
Signaling a shift in Russia’s stance towards North Korea, Putin lauded Pyongyang ahead of his visit for standing up to U.S. economic pressure, blackmail, and threats.
In an article for North Korea’s official ruling party newspaper, Putin committed to “develop alternative trade and mutual settlement mechanisms not controlled by the West” and “build an equal and indivisible security architecture in Eurasia.”