Russia and North Korea Sign Strategic Defense Pact

China watches cautiously as Putin and Kim Jong Un deepen military and political ties.

The new treaty includes a mutual defense provision, committing each country to military support if the other is attacked.
North Korea is supplying Russia with munitions for its war in Ukraine, while Russia may aid North Korea's weapons programs.
China, a key ally to both nations, is wary of the implications and remains diplomatically reticent.
The U.S., South Korea, and Japan have condemned the pact, citing regional security concerns.
Experts suggest the pact could destabilize Northeast Asia and complicate China's strategic position.