Moscow, November 10, 2024 – The Europe Today: Russian President Vladimir Putin officially ratified a comprehensive partnership agreement with North Korea on Saturday, formalizing military and diplomatic commitments between the two nations. The treaty, originally signed during Putin’s June visit to Pyongyang, was ratified by the State Duma and Federation Council in recent weeks, with final approval now secured, according to Russia’s legislative portal.
The agreement includes a mutual defense pledge, stipulating that both countries will provide military support if either faces foreign aggression. This commitment aligns with Article 51 of the UN Charter, allowing for collective defense measures. Additionally, Russia and North Korea have pledged to avoid alliances targeting each other’s sovereignty and oppose Western sanctions, labeling them as unlawful under international law.
North Korean Foreign Minister Choe Son-hui recently reiterated Pyongyang’s support for Russia in the ongoing conflict with Ukraine, emphasizing unwavering solidarity until Moscow’s objectives are achieved. Although Western nations have raised concerns over alleged North Korean troop support in Ukraine, North Korea denies these claims, calling them attempts to damage its reputation.
The treaty will take full effect following an exchange of ratification instruments between Moscow and Pyongyang, signaling a strengthened alliance amid ongoing geopolitical tensions.