Putin and Kim Jong Un sign mutual defence pact in North Korea
- In Reports
- 05:53 PM, Jun 19, 2024
- Myind Staff
Russian President Vladimir Putin and North Korean leader Kim Jong Un signed a new pact on, which includes a commitment to mutual defence in the event of an attack on either country.
The agreement was finalised during a summit in Pyongyang, marking Putin's first visit to the secretive nuclear-armed state in 24 years. This comes amid escalating tensions with Western nations for both leaders.
Described as a comprehensive strategic partnership, the pact could potentially involve Moscow providing military technology to Pyongyang in exchange for munitions essential for Russia's military operations in Ukraine. U.S. officials have expressed concerns that such transfers could significantly bolster North Korea's nuclear and missile capabilities, posing a threat to the Asia-Pacific region.
Kim, who has been intensifying weapons testing and heightening tensions with South Korea, pledged his full support for what Russia terms its "special military operation" in Ukraine during the summit.
Putin's arrival in Pyongyang included a ceremonial welcome at Kim Il Sung Square, named after North Korea's founding leader and Kim Jong Un's grandfather. The event featured cheering civilians, military bands playing national anthems, and displays of national flags and balloons by children.
The visit coincides with ongoing military efforts by Russian forces to make advances in eastern and northern Ukraine, while Kyiv has bolstered its defences with increased support from its allies.
Kim and Putin proceeded to summit talks at the Kumsusan Palace following their initial greeting. In his opening remarks, Putin expressed gratitude for North Korea's steadfast support of Russian policies, particularly regarding Ukraine, as reported by Russian state media. He criticised what he termed as decades of imperialist policies imposed by the United States and its allies against Russia.
According to Russian state media, Kim remarked that relations between Russia and North Korea were entering a new era of prosperity and affirmed North Korea's unwavering support for all Russian policies.
Delegations from both countries engaged in talks for approximately one and a half hours, followed by an additional two hours of one-on-one discussions between Kim and Putin, as reported by Russian state media.
Earlier, Kim greeted Putin at Pyongyang International Airport upon his arrival in the early hours of Wednesday, exchanging handshakes and embraces, according to the state-run Korean Central News Agency. Kim accompanied Putin in his limousine to the Kumsusan State Guest House, where the Russian leader would be accommodated.
The agency described the journey as an opportunity for the two leaders to share their deepest thoughts, highlighting the enduring strength and resilience of Russia-North Korea relations.
Putin's latest visit to Pyongyang marks a significant step in enhancing ties between Russia and North Korea. The strategic agreement signed on Wednesday is viewed by Putin as a pivotal document shaping their long-term relationship.
Analysts suggest the deal could bolster arms trade and strengthen their anti-U.S. coalition. Concerns in the West focus on potential weapons and intelligence sharing that could benefit Putin's military operations in Ukraine and pose threats to U.S. and allied interests in Asia.
U.S. officials have voiced apprehension over North Korea's alleged provision of munitions to Russia, with concerns heightened by reports of Russia assisting North Korea with nuclear submarine and ballistic missile technologies.
Both North Korea and Russia have denied any arms transfers, which would violate past UN Security Council resolutions. Russia's recent veto on monitoring sanctions against North Korea has drawn criticism for shielding Kim from consequences for weapons tests.
South Korea cautioned that any cooperation must comply with existing resolutions and not undermine regional stability. Pyongyang stands to gain access to much-needed oil and natural resources, potentially undermining sanctions' effectiveness.
The alliance is seen as a personal victory for Kim, boosting his domestic propaganda efforts. Tensions remain high on the Korean Peninsula amid increased weapons testing and military drills by the US, South Korea, and Japan.
Following his visit to North Korea, Putin is expected to travel to Vietnam, a move criticised by the US, which views it as supporting Putin's aggressive actions in Ukraine.
Image source: NBC
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