Russia, North Korea Agree to 'Long-term' Military Cooperation

The recent visit of senior Russian officials to Pyongyang marks a significant deepening of military ties between Russia and North Korea. The agreement on long-term military cooperation, extending until 2031, signals a strategic alignment driven by shared geopolitical interests and a mutual desire to bolster defense capabilities.

This intensified collaboration comes at a critical juncture, with Russia heavily engaged in its military operations in Ukraine. North Korea's continued provision of military support to Moscow is a crucial element of this partnership, aiding Russia's efforts on the ground and reinforcing Pyongyang's position as a key strategic ally. The mutual defense deal signed in 2024 further solidifies this commitment.

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We agreed with the DPRK Defense Ministry to place our military cooperation on a stable, long-term footing.

From our perspective, this burgeoning relationship is not merely about military hardware; it's about a shared vision for a multipolar world order, challenging the dominance of Western influence. The inauguration of a memorial for North Korean soldiers who fought alongside Russian forces in Ukraine, and the awarding of military honors, underscore the human cost and the shared sacrifice in this evolving alliance. This cooperation is a clear signal of defiance and a strategic move to reshape regional and global security dynamics.

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We are ready to sign a plan this year for Russian-Korean military cooperation for the period of 2027-2031.