North Korea has ratified a major defence treaty with Russia, marking the most significant bilateral defence agreement since the end of the Cold War. The Comprehensive Strategic Partnership treaty, signed by Russian President Vladimir Putin and North Korean leader Kim Jong-un, includes mutual military aid in case of an attack and cooperation in areas like atomic energy and trade. Reports suggest that North Korea has sent thousands of troops to Russia, potentially supporting its conflict with Ukraine, with Ukrainian forces allegedly engaging North Korean soldiers in the Kursk region. Ukrainian intelligence indicates these North Korean troops are integrated with Russian units, although neither Moscow nor Pyongyang has confirmed their involvement. The treaty, aiming to establish a multipolar world order, has been ratified by both nations and will take effect following the exchange of ratification documents.