Russia has moved to ratify a defense pact with North Korea, alarming South Korea as Pyongyang reportedly prepares to deploy troops to help Moscow in its Ukraine conflict. Seoul’s spy agency revealed that thousands of North Korean soldiers are currently training in Russia and are expected to join the fighting. The pact, providing for “mutual assistance” in case of aggression, was unanimously approved by Russian lawmakers and will now be reviewed by the Federation Council. South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol expressed concern over the troop deployments, emphasizing that the actions threaten global security.
Despite being a major weapons exporter, South Korea has resisted supplying arms to Ukraine but may reconsider in response to North Korea’s alliance with Moscow. The countries are strengthening defense cooperation, with South Korea already selling military equipment to Poland. During President Duda’s visit to South Korea, agreements were made to enhance defense collaboration and support peace efforts in Ukraine. The visit includes meetings with key defense contractors, highlighting the strategic partnerships between the countries.