North Korea and Russia have signed a strategic partnership agreement, which includes a clause for joint defense. During his visit to Pyongyang, Russian President Vladimir Putin emphasized the importance of military-technical cooperation with North Korea in relation to the treaty and called for a reconsideration of the sanctions on Pyongyang. Kim Jong Un described the treaty as constructive, peaceful, and defensive, ensuring the foundation of sincerity in Korean-Russian relations.
Putin received a warm reception during his visit to Pyongyang, including a military parade and group dances. He held talks with Kim Jong Un and extended an invitation for the North Korean leader to visit Russia. Putin also presented Kim with gifts, including a luxurious limousine, a tea set, and an admiral’s dagger.
Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Sergei Ryabkov stated that Russia is discussing the deployment of long-range weapons with its closest partners in Asia and Latin America. He mentioned that discussions are ongoing with full respect for international treaties, and diplomatic contacts with the United States have been reduced to a minimum. Ryabkov warned of potential further deterioration in diplomatic relations due to American actions to confiscate Russian assets.
