President Vladimir V. Putin of Russia and North Korea’s leader, Kim Jong-un, revived a Cold War-era mutual defense pledge between their nations on Wednesday, as the Kremlin deepened its security relationship with North Korea and vowed solidarity in challenging the United States.
Neither Russia nor North Korea immediately released the text of the new treaty.
But Mr. Putin, speaking at a joint briefing in Pyongyang after the two leaders signed the document, said the pact called for the nations to aid one another in the event of “aggression” against either country.
The pledge of mutual assistance is likely to further alarm Washington and its allies.
It could presage not only deeper support by North Korea for Russia’s war in Ukraine but also greater support from Moscow in aiding Mr. Kim’s quest for better-functioning nuclear weapons, missiles, submarines and satellites — a development that would increase anxiety among America’s Asian allies, especially South Korea.
Persons:
Vladimir V, Putin, Kim Jong, Kim, ” Mr
Organizations:
Kremlin
Locations:
Russia, North, North Korea, United States, Pyongyang, Moscow, Washington, Ukraine, South Korea