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Russia's New Defense Pact with North Korea Prompts South Korea to Consider Supplying Weapons to Ukraine

Jun 24, 2024, 06:21 AM

Russia has signed a new defense pact with North Korea, significantly raising geopolitical tensions. The agreement, which elevates the relationship between Moscow and Pyongyang to a 'strategic partnership,' has prompted strong reactions from the international community. South Korea has stated it will reconsider its policy of not supplying weapons to Ukraine if Russia transfers modern military technologies, including precision weapons, to North Korea. This stance was reiterated by Jang Ho-jin, the National Security Adviser of South Korea, on June 20. The pact has also caused concern in China, which has historically been North Korea's main ally. The United States, Japan, and South Korea have condemned the deepening military cooperation between Russia and North Korea in the strongest possible terms. South Korean President Yoon calls for firm readiness amid these developments. Vladimir Putin's visit to Pyongyang and the subsequent agreement with Kim Jong Un have been seen as a direct challenge to Western interests, further complicating the already tense situation over Ukraine.