Sergei Shoigu, Russia’s security adviser, visited North Korea to meet Kim Jong Un, signifying strengthened security ties. The visit follows allegations of North Korea deploying troops to assist Russia in Ukraine, while both nations reaffirm a mutual defense agreement established in June 2024.
Sergei Shoigu, the top security adviser to Russian President Vladimir Putin, has arrived in North Korea for discussions with leader Kim Jong Un, as reported by TASS news agency. This visit marks significant progress in security relations between Russia and North Korea. Although specific details surrounding the visit were not disclosed, it underscores the strengthening ties amid ongoing geopolitical tensions.
Shoigu, who served as Russia’s defense minister until May and has been the Secretary of the Security Council since, previously visited North Korea as the country prepared to send troops to support Russia in the Ukraine conflict. According to American and South Korean officials, North Korea has reportedly deployed approximately 11,000 troops and supplied heavy weaponry to assist Russian efforts in the Kursk region, where conflicts have intensified since last August.
As Russian forces continue to combat Ukrainian aggression in Kursk, the partnership between North Korea and Russia appears to be expanding. Reports suggest that North Korea has received military and civilian technology, alongside economic aid from Russia, in exchange for military assistance. Although neither country has publicly acknowledged the deployment of troops, they have expressed commitment to a strategic partnership established in June 2024, which includes a mutual defense agreement.
The agreement entails that both nations are obligated to provide mutual assistance if either comes under attack, further solidifying their alliance amidst global tensions.
In summary, Sergei Shoigu’s visit to North Korea symbolizes heightened security cooperation between Russia and North Korea, particularly in the context of military assistance regarding the Ukraine conflict. Both nations continue to affirm their strategic partnership and mutual defense pact, indicating an ongoing commitment to collaborate amid escalating geopolitical challenges.
Original Source: www.independent.co.uk
