The ratification process for the comprehensive strategic partnership treaty between Russia and North Korea has officially begun.
According to Sputnik, Russian President Vladimir Putin submitted a related bill to the State Duma (lower house) on Monday to facilitate the ratification of the strategic partnership treaty signed during his visit to North Korea in June.
The document, now available in the State Duma’s database, states, “This bill ratifies the treaty on the comprehensive strategic partnership between the Russian Federation and North Korea, signed in Pyongyang on June 19, 2024.”
During his state visit to North Korea in June, Putin signed this treaty after a summit with North Korean leader Kim Jong Un.
Under the treaty, both nations commit to providing military assistance to one another in the event of military aggression, effectively elevating their relationship to the level of a military alliance.
The strategic partnership treaty between North Korea and Russia is analyzed as a significant shift in relation to China.
While North Korea managed to avoid defeat during the Korean War thanks to Chinese support, it has consistently been wary of China. North Korea remains concerned that if its political situation deteriorates, China might invade at any moment by crossing the Tumen River.
Forming a military alliance with Russia serves as a critical counterbalance to China. Furthermore, in the wake of Western pressure following Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, North Korea is strengthening ties with Moscow to gain military technology and resources while also providing Russia with weapons. This strategic relationship allows North Korea to navigate between its two powerful neighbors—China and Russia—to maximize its own geopolitical advantage.
The treaty stipulates that it will take effect once the ratification documents are exchanged between the two countries.
