Russian President Vladimir Putin and North Korean leader Kim Jong Un signed a partnership agreement, including a vow of mutual aid if either country is attacked, during a Pyongyang summit on Wednesday. This comes as both nations face escalating tensions with the West.

The agreement, termed a “comprehensive strategic partnership,” lacks clarity on the specifics of the assistance. This was Putin's first visit to North Korea in 24 years, amidst concerns over an arms deal where North Korea supplies Moscow with munitions for its war in Ukraine in exchange for economic aid and technology transfers that could enhance Kim's nuclear and missile capabilities.

Following the signing ceremony, Putin stated that security and international issues were key topics in their discussions and did not rule out military-technical cooperation with North Korea. Kim described the agreement as peaceful and defensive, expressing hope for a new multipolar world.

Russia and North Korea also inked deals on healthcare, medical education, and science. Putin was warmly received by Kim upon arrival, and after a night at a state guest house, attended a welcoming ceremony in Pyongyang’s main square. They saluted an honor guard and met key North Korean leaders, with tens of thousands of spectators, including children, cheering and waving flags.

During the talks, Putin thanked Kim for North Korea’s support in Ukraine, framing it as resistance against U.S. hegemonic policies. Kim pledged full support for Russia’s efforts in Ukraine, describing the friendship between the two nations as stronger than ever.

North Korea is under U.N. sanctions for its weapons program, and Russia faces Western sanctions over Ukraine. Both countries deny accusations of North Korean arms transfers to Russia, which would violate U.N. sanctions.

The summit highlights North Korea’s potential illicit activities to gain foreign currency and possible expansions in agriculture, fisheries, and tourism cooperation with Russia. Tensions on the Korean Peninsula remain high, with increased weapons tests and military exercises

Russian President Vladimir Putin and North Korean leader Kim Jong Un signed a partnership agreement, including a vow of mutual aid if either country is attacked, during a Pyongyang summit on Wednesday. This comes as both nations face escalating tensions with the West.

The agreement, termed a “comprehensive strategic partnership,” lacks clarity on the specifics of the assistance. This was Putin's first visit to North Korea in 24 years, amidst concerns over an arms deal where North Korea supplies Moscow with munitions for its war in Ukraine in exchange for economic aid and technology transfers that could enhance Kim's nuclear and missile capabilities.

Following the signing ceremony, Putin stated that security and international issues were key topics in their discussions and did not rule out military-technical cooperation with North Korea. Kim described the agreement as peaceful and defensive, expressing hope for a new multipolar world.

Russia and North Korea also inked deals on healthcare, medical education, and science. Putin was warmly received by Kim upon arrival, and after a night at a state guest house, attended a welcoming ceremony in Pyongyang’s main square. They saluted an honor guard and met key North Korean leaders, with tens of thousands of spectators, including children, cheering and waving flags.

During the talks, Putin thanked Kim for North Korea’s support in Ukraine, framing it as resistance against U.S. hegemonic policies. Kim pledged full support for Russia’s efforts in Ukraine, describing the friendship between the two nations as stronger than ever.

North Korea is under U.N. sanctions for its weapons program, and Russia faces Western sanctions over Ukraine. Both countries deny accusations of North Korean arms transfers to Russia, which would violate U.N. sanctions.

The summit highlights North Korea’s potential illicit activities to gain foreign currency and possible expansions in agriculture, fisheries, and tourism cooperation with Russia. Tensions on the Korean Peninsula remain high, with increased weapons tests and military exercises