Kim Jong Un Reaffirms North Korea’s Support for Russia Amid…

Kim Jong Un met with Russian official Sergei Shoigu, reaffirming North Korea’s support for Russia’s actions in Ukraine. They discussed mutual defense commitments and military collaboration, with North Korea reportedly supplying troops and weapons to Russia. Concurrently, North Korea conducted missile tests amidst U.S.-South Korean military exercises, indicating heightened tensions in the geopolitical landscape.

North Korean leader Kim Jong Un reasserted his support for Russia’s engagement in Ukraine during his meeting with Sergei Shoigu, the Secretary of Russia’s Security Council, as reported by North Korean state media on March 22. This meeting followed a report suggesting North Korea may have dispatched more troops to support Russia amidst casualties from the ongoing conflict in Ukraine.

During the discussions, the two leaders reiterated their commitment to a mutual defense treaty established last year. This treaty entails mutual assistance should either nation face aggression. Kim expressed unwavering support for Russia, stating the need to protect national sovereignty and security interests. Shoigu relayed a message from President Vladimir Putin, expressing appreciation for North Korea’s alignment with Russia’s geopolitical stances, particularly regarding Ukraine.

Both North Korean and Russian outlets did not disclose any new agreements post-Shoigu’s departure from Pyongyang. However, North Korea is reportedly supplying large quantities of conventional weapons and has sent between 10,000 to 12,000 troops to Russia. South Korean intelligence is currently assessing the exact number of North Korean troops deployed, estimating an additional 1,000 to 3,000 are possibly stationed in Russia now.

Concerns have been raised by South Korea, the United States, and other nations about North Korea receiving military and economic support from Russia in return for its military aid. Analysts believe that North Korea is poised to escalate its backing for Russia in anticipation of maximizing benefits before the conclusion of the conflict. Shoigu’s visit is speculated to be part of preparations for a potential visit by Kim to Russia, following an earlier invitation from Putin.

In a related development, Kim oversaw test launches of new anti-aircraft missiles, which he termed an important defense system for North Korea. These missile launches took place amid the backdrop of the U.S. and South Korea concluding their large-scale military training, which North Korea perceives as a rehearsal for invasion. North Korea has responded to these exercises with its own military actions and strong rhetoric, marking this year’s sixth weapons testing activity.

In summary, the ongoing strategic dialogue between North Korea and Russia highlights their mutual defense commitments and military collaboration amid the Ukraine conflict. Recent military developments on both sides reflect heightened tensions and preparations related to geopolitical maneuvers.

The interactions between North Korea and Russia showcase a strengthening alliance, particularly through military collaborations and mutual defense agreements. Kim Jong Un’s reiterated support for Russia’s military actions in Ukraine indicates a solidified partnership as each country seeks to bolster its geopolitical standing. With North Korea increasing military support and conducting missile tests amidst U.S.-South Korean exercises, the situation remains dynamic and indicative of ongoing strategic objectives in the region.

Original Source: www.channelnewsasia.com