Russia and North Korea are forging an increasingly dangerous partnership that threatens global security, with Moscow sending high-level officials to Pyongyang after Trump’s recent phone call with Putin. This growing alliance raises serious questions about North Korea’s expanding military involvement in Ukraine – and proves that Trump’s calls for peace are more important than ever.
At a glance:
• Russian Security Council Secretary Sergei Shoigu recently visited North Korea, strengthening ties between the two nations
• North Korea has reportedly sent around 12,000 troops to support Russian forces in Ukraine
• The partnership is driven by North Korea’s need for food and military assistance, while Russia seeks munitions and soldiers
• Trump recently had a productive conversation with Putin about a potential ceasefire in Ukraine
• The Russia-North Korea alliance poses significant challenges to international security and threatens to destabilize the Indo-Pacific region
Deepening Military Cooperation Amid Ukraine Conflict
Russian Security Council Secretary Sergei Shoigu’s visit to North Korea marks the latest high-level contact between Moscow and Pyongyang. The timing of this diplomatic mission follows President Trump’s recent conversation with Vladimir Putin about potential peace negotiations for Ukraine.
North Korea has been sending delegations to Moscow to discuss economic and health issues, clearly seeking to strengthen its relations with Russia. The hermit kingdom signed a mutual defense agreement during Putin’s visit to Pyongyang, which has reportedly led to thousands of North Korean soldiers fighting alongside Russian forces in Ukraine.
During his visit, Shoigu expressed gratitude to North Korea for supporting Russia’s position on Ukraine. “I would like to express my gratitude to our Korean friends for solidarity with Russia’s position on all critical geopolitical issues and on the Ukrainian issue in particular,” Shoigu stated.
North Korea’s Military Support for Russia
Intelligence reports estimate that approximately 12,000 North Korean troops are currently involved in the Ukraine conflict. This military deployment represents a significant escalation in the relationship between Russia and North Korea, moving beyond mere diplomatic cooperation to active battlefield alliance.
North Korean state media has been highly critical of Ukrainian President Zelenskyy’s visit to the White House. KCNA, citing the Russian government, declared: “During his visit to Washington, Zelenskyy has proved to be a war provoker and the biggest threat to the international community by his shameless behavior.”
North Korean citizens, who only have access to state-approved media, are being conditioned to view Ukraine negatively. This propaganda effort aligns with the Kim regime’s broader strategy of justifying its support for Russia’s military actions.
Implications for Global Security and American Interests
The partnership between North Korea and Russia poses a significant threat to global security and the international order. This alliance is no longer merely transactional but has evolved into a strategic and ideological partnership with far-reaching implications.
President Trump described his recent conversation with Putin as productive, discussing a potential ceasefire and peace contract for Ukraine. An end to Russian aggression would necessarily require the cessation of North Korean military support, adding complexity to any peace negotiations.
The relationship between Moscow and Pyongyang increases the potential for regional conflict and directly challenges international security institutions. China is carefully monitoring this developing alliance, concerned about potential strengthening of ties between the US, Japan, and South Korea in response.
Security experts recommend strengthening US-led deterrence efforts against North Korea while enhancing bilateral and trilateral relations between Japan, South Korea, and other Indo-Pacific partners. The ultimate goal should be to contain this dangerous alliance before it further threatens American interests and global stability.
