Russia, North Korea Cement Strategic Military Partnership

Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov described the relationship between Russia and North Korea as an "invincible fighting brotherhood" during his visit to Wonsan, North Korea, where he met with leader Kim Jong-un. The two countries have deepened their strategic partnership, including a mutual defense pact signed in 2024, which commits to military assistance if either is attacked. Lavrov thanked North Korea for its support in the war in Ukraine, where Pyongyang has reportedly sent over 10,000 soldiers and weapons to aid Russia, with potential plans to deploy additional troops. Russian President Vladimir Putin sent greetings and expressed hope for continued direct contacts with North Korea. Lavrov also warned the US, South Korea, and Japan against forming security alliances aimed at Russia or North Korea, emphasizing cooperation and tourism development between the two nations. The alliance is further symbolized by North Korean soldiers’ participation in battles such as the liberation of the Kursk region in Russia.