Fri Oct 25 05:00:31 UTC 2024: – **Deployment of Troops**: Approximately 3,000 North Korean troops have been sent to Russia for training on drones and other military equipment in preparation for deployment in Ukraine, according to South Korea’s spy chief.
– **Mutual Military Pact**: The Russian State Duma ratified a treaty with North Korea to establish a “comprehensive strategic partnership,” which obligates both nations to provide mutual military assistance if either is attacked.
– **U.S. Concerns**: The U.S. has acknowledged the deployment of North Korean troops to Russia, labeling it a serious development and indicating that such forces would be legitimate targets if they engage in combat in Ukraine.
– **Statements from Leaders**: Russian President Vladimir Putin confirmed the ratification of the strategic partnership and expressed confidence in North Korea’s commitment to the agreement, while previously denying that North Korea was supplying missiles or artillery shells to Russia.
– **Military Cooperation**: There are suggestions that, in exchange for military support, Russia might share advanced military technologies with North Korea to enhance its missile and satellite capabilities.
First Piper 