North Korea ratifies defense pact with Russia amid global concern

Reuters reported the information.

The treaty, signed by North Korean leader Kim Jong Un and Russian President Vladimir Putin in June, requires both nations to "immediately provide military and other assistance using all available means" if either is at war.

Kim hailed the pact as a step toward a closer "alliance" with Russia. According to KCNA, the treaty will be effective once both sides exchange ratification documents.

The alliance has sparked international criticism, especially as North Korea reportedly sent over 10,000 troops to support Russia’s war in Ukraine. U.S. officials and Ukraine's defense minister confirmed that some North Korean soldiers have engaged in combat near the Ukraine border.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy recently said that North Korean troops have suffered casualties in these battles, describing it as a "new page in instability in the world."