North Korea ratifies mutual defence treaty with Russia

Mon Nov 11 22:41:37 UTC 2024: ## North Korea Ratifies Mutual Defense Treaty with Russia

**SEOUL -** North Korea has formally ratified a mutual defense treaty with Russia, solidifying a partnership that has drawn international condemnation. The treaty, signed by both leaders in June, commits each nation to providing military aid to the other in the event of an armed attack.

The official announcement came on Tuesday from North Korean state media KCNA, which reported that leader Kim Jong Un signed a decree ratifying the pact on Monday. The treaty will come into effect once both countries exchange ratification instruments.

This development comes amidst growing concerns over military cooperation between Russia and North Korea. Reports indicate that tens of thousands of North Korean troops have been deployed to Russia to support its ongoing war against Ukraine.

While the exact number of troops remains disputed, with estimates ranging from over 10,000 to 20,000, officials from the U.S. and Ukraine have confirmed the presence of North Korean soldiers in Russia, some of whom have reportedly engaged in combat near the Ukrainian border.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky last week stated that North Korean troops have suffered casualties in combat with Ukrainian forces, marking a significant escalation in the conflict and raising global concerns about the implications of the partnership between Russia and North Korea.