**North Korea Pledges Unwavering Support for Russia’s War in Ukraine**
In a meeting with Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov, North Korean leader Kim Jong Un has pledged his nation’s “unconditional” support for Moscow’s full-scale war against Ukraine. The statement comes as tensions between Russia and the West continue to escalate.
According to reports from North Korea’s state news agency, Kim told Lavrov that his country stands ready to support all measures taken by Russian leadership in addressing the root cause of the Ukrainian crisis. This statement is significant, as it suggests a deepening alliance between Pyongyang and Moscow in their shared goal of undermining Ukraine’s sovereignty.
**A Closer Look at Russia-North Korea Ties**
The meeting between Kim and Lavrov took place during a three-day visit to North Korea by the Russian Foreign Minister. The two countries have been intensifying their military alliance over the course of the war, with Pyongyang providing troops and weapons to Moscow in exchange for economic, military, and technological assistance.
In June 2024, Russia and North Korea signed a defense treaty, marking a significant escalation of their partnership. Last year, around 11,000 North Korean soldiers were sent to Russia’s Kursk Oblast to help repel a Ukrainian incursion. Now, CNN reports that Pyongyang is preparing to send an additional 25,000-30,000 troops to join Russian forces.
**Lavrov’s Remarks: A Warning to the West**
During his meeting with North Korean counterpart Choe Son Hui, Lavrov expressed gratitude for North Korea’s troops and support for the country’s nuclear program. He also signaled a desire to expand Russian tourism in North Korea.
However, it was Lavrov’s warning to the U.S., South Korea, and Japan against forming a security partnership targeting North Korea that drew attention. The three countries have been expanding and restoring trilateral military exercises in response to growing alarm over North Korea’s nuclear program.
**What Does This Mean for Ukraine and the World?**
The deepening alliance between Russia and North Korea is a worrying development for Ukraine, which continues to face brutal aggression from Moscow. Pyongyang’s pledge of unconditional support may embolden Russian leadership to continue its maximalist territorial ambitions in Ukraine.
As the world grapples with the implications of this developing partnership, one thing is clear: the stakes are high, and the consequences could be far-reaching.
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