Shoigu’s Visit to North Korea Signals Strengthening Security Relations

Russian security adviser Sergei Shoigu has arrived in North Korea to meet Kim Jong Un, signaling growing security ties. Previous reports suggest North Korea could be deploying troops to aid Russia in Ukraine, while discussions could revolve around the military and economic assistance provided between the two nations in their strategic partnership.

Sergei Shoigu, the top security adviser to Russian President Vladimir Putin, has arrived in North Korea for discussions with Kim Jong Un, according to a report by TASS news agency. This visit is indicative of the growing security relations between Russia and North Korea, although specific details regarding the meeting were not disclosed. North Korean state media has not acknowledged Mr. Shoigu’s arrival either.

Previously, Mr. Shoigu served as Russia’s defence minister and has visited Pyongyang amid reports that North Korea is preparing to send troops to support Russia in its ongoing conflict with Ukraine. American and South Korean intelligence has suggested that around 11,000 North Korean troops have been deployed to assist in combat operations in Russia’s Kursk region, along with heavy weaponry like artillery and ballistic missiles.

Since August of last year, Russian forces have been defending against a Ukrainian advance in Kursk and are reportedly making efforts to regain control of the area. In return for military assistance, North Korea is believed to be receiving military and civilian technologies as well as economic aid from Russia.

Although both nations have not officially confirmed the deployment of troops and weapons, they have reiterated their commitment to a strategic partnership treaty established in June 2024. This treaty includes a mutual defense agreement, which obligates each signatory to assist the other in case of an attack.

The visit of Sergei Shoigu to North Korea underscores the deepening ties between Russia and North Korea, particularly in military cooperation. While neither country has formally recognized the military support being provided, their partnership treaty suggests a solid commitment to mutual defense in times of conflict. This evolving relationship reveals the complexities of geopolitical alliances amid ongoing global tensions.

Original Source: www.independent.co.uk