Sergei Shoigu, Russia’s top security adviser, arrives in North Korea to meet Kim Jong Un, highlighting the strengthening security relations. This visit follows reports of North Korea allegedly deploying troops to assist Russia in Ukraine. Despite both countries not officially acknowledging these actions, a mutual defense treaty fuels their collaboration.
In a significant development in international relations, Sergei Shoigu, Russia’s top security adviser, recently arrived in North Korea to meet with leader Kim Jong Un. This visit marks a continuation of the deepening security ties between Russia and North Korea, as reported by the TASS news agency. However, details surrounding his arrival remain scarce, with North Korean media yet to acknowledge the visit.
Previously serving as Russia’s defense minister, Mr. Shoigu now holds the position of Secretary of the Security Council. His recent visits to Pyongyang align with reports suggesting North Korea’s preparation to send troops to aid Russia in its conflict with Ukraine. American and South Korean intelligence asserts that nearly 11,000 North Korean troops have been deployed for combat operations in Russia’s Kursk region, alongside shipments of heavy weaponry such as artillery and ballistic missiles.
The ongoing conflict in Kursk has posed significant challenges for Russian forces, which have been defending against Ukrainian advances since last August and are reportedly on the verge of reclaiming the region. In exchange for these military contributions, North Korea is believed to receive technological and economic support from Moscow, facilitating a reciprocal relationship of assistance.
Both Pyongyang and Moscow have not officially confirmed the deployment of North Korean troops or weaponry in the Ukraine war. Nonetheless, they maintain that they are honoring a strategic partnership treaty established by President Putin and Kim Jong Un in June 2024, which encompasses a mutual defense agreement, compelling each nation to assist the other in case of an aggressor attack.
The visit of Sergei Shoigu to North Korea underscores the strengthening security partnership between Russia and North Korea amid ongoing military engagements in Ukraine. While neither nation publicly acknowledges the troop deployments, their continued collaboration signifies a committed alliance that encompasses military, technological, and economic support. The mutual defense treaty further solidifies this relationship, indicating the potential for future cooperative efforts in response to perceived threats.
Original Source: www.independent.co.uk
