North Korea ratifies key defense pact with Russia amid growing tensions

North Korea has officially ratified its defense pact with Russia. The agreement, signed by the leaders of both countries in June, says that if either country is attacked, the other will help defend it. This news was reported by North Korea's state media, KCNA.

The decision to ratify this treaty is drawing a lot of attention. Countries around the world are worried about the growing military cooperation between North Korea and Russia. Recently, North Korea sent tens of thousands of its soldiers to Russia to help in its war against Ukraine.

North Korea’s leader, Kim Jong-un, signed an official decree on Monday to make the treaty law. KCNA said that the treaty will be official when both countries exchange their signed documents. Russian President Vladimir Putin has already signed the agreement, making it a law in Russia too.

The treaty says that if either North Korea or Russia is attacked, the two countries will immediately provide military support and other types of help. Kim Jong-un called this treaty a step toward making the two countries like allies.

The agreement was discussed in detail when Kim and Putin met in June. Kim made it clear that the treaty would help strengthen the relationship between the two countries. Both leaders agreed to work together in different areas, especially military support during times of war.

The ratification of this treaty has raised concerns, particularly in countries like South Korea, the United States, and Ukraine. These countries are worried about how the growing ties between North Korea and Russia could affect the war in Ukraine. Reports from South Korea, the United States, and Ukraine say that more than 10,000 North Korean soldiers are now in Russia. Some of these soldiers have reportedly fought near the Ukraine border, in a place called Kursk.

North Korea has also been accused of sending artillery shells and missiles to Russia to use in the war against Ukraine. This has led to more tension between North Korea and Western countries, which have already criticized North Korea’s support for Russia.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky recently confirmed that North Korean troops were fighting against Ukraine's forces. Some of these soldiers have been hurt in the battles. Zelensky said these battles are a sign of growing instability in the world, making the situation even more worrying.

The increasing friendship between North Korea and Russia is concerning for many countries. 

This new defense agreement shows that the two countries are growing closer despite being isolated by other parts of the world. While Russia faces international criticism and sanctions because of its war with Ukraine, North Korea’s support is helping Russia stay strong.