Russia-North Korea Alliance Deepens with Shoigu's Visit to Pyongyang

Sergei Shoigu's arrival in North Korea highlights increasing military cooperation amid allegations of troop and weapons support in Ukraine.

Sergei Shoigu, Russia's top security adviser, has arrived in North Korea to meet with Kim Jong Un, continuing efforts to strengthen bilateral ties.
The Russia-North Korea strategic partnership treaty, signed in June 2024, includes a mutual defense pact obligating mutual support in the event of an attack.
North Korea is alleged to have deployed nearly 11,000 troops and supplied heavy weapons, including artillery and ballistic missiles, to aid Russia in Ukraine, though both nations deny these claims.
Russia is reportedly close to retaking the Kursk region, where North Korean troops are alleged to have been deployed during the conflict.
In return for its alleged support, North Korea is believed to have received military technology, civilian aid, and economic assistance from Russia.