Moscow: The State Duma of Russia has officially ratified a Treaty on Comprehensive Strategic Partnership with North Korea, marking a significant step in the two nations’ bilateral relations. The treaty, originally signed by Russian President Vladimir Putin and North Korean leader Kim Jong-un in June 2024, underscores a commitment to cooperation that may include military dimensions.
According to Azeri-Press News Agency, Leonid Slutsky, Chairman of the Duma’s International Affairs Committee, emphasized that the agreement is founded on principles such as mutual respect for sovereignty and territorial integrity, non-interference in internal matters, and a shared vision for a multipolar world order. This move by Russia comes amid reports from the United States that thousands of North Korean troops have been deployed to support Russian forces in Ukraine, a claim not yet addressed by either Moscow or Pyongyang.
The Kremlin has previously stated that the treaty could encompass military collaboration, further deepen
ing the strategic ties between the two countries. The development has attracted international attention, particularly from Western nations wary of heightened military cooperation between Russia and North Korea.