Russian, North Korean foreign ministers meeting in Moscow sparks concerns over increased military cooperation between the two countries
By richardbrown // 2024-09-23
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Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov recently met with his North Korean counterpart, Choe Son-hui, in Moscow to discuss advancing bilateral relations within the framework of a comprehensive strategic partnership, the Russian Foreign Ministry announced recently. Choe was sent to be North Korea's representative to attend the inaugural BRICS Women's Forum in St. Petersburg, part of the IV Eurasian Women's Forum, themed "Women for Strengthening Trust and Global Cooperation." Russia currently holds the BRICS presidency. While Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov stated that President Vladimir Putin had no plans to meet Choe unlike their previous meeting in January, North Korean leader Kim Jong Un has been traveling across Russia with Secretary of the Security Council and former Defense Miniter Sergei Shoigu. The visit has sparked concerns over growing cooperation, particularly reports suggesting that Moscow may assist North Korea in developing satellite and missile technology. Western and neighboring Asian countries are especially worried about North Korea potentially acquiring nuclear submarine technology from Russia in future technology exchanges between Pyongyang and Moscow. (Related: North Korean troops could join Russia’s war action against Ukraine.) North Korea previously supplied Russia with ammunition during a critical phase of the ongoing Russian special military operation in Ukraine, though it remains unclear what North Korea received in return. Analysts speculate that Pyongyang may have provided millions of 152mm artillery shells, 122mm rockets, and KN-23 ballistic missiles to support Russian forces. North Korea has expressed a strong interest in developing nuclear-powered submarines, which would allow for extended underwater travel with minimal detection risk. While North Korea's current fleet consists solely of conventional submarines, which must periodically resurface, Russia boasts one of the world’s most advanced nuclear submarine fleets, raising concerns about the possible transfer of such technology to Pyongyang.

U.S., South Korea express concerns about improved Russia-North Korea relations

The new agreement between Russia and North Korea has raised significant concerns for both the United States and South Korea, particularly due to its implications for military-technical cooperation. The details of the agreement remain unclear, but the potential for Russian support in enhancing North Korea’s missile and nuclear capabilities is worrisome. This could pose a direct threat to South Korea and the United States. Russia's past involvement in North Korea's military development has been extensive, from training nuclear scientists to aiding missile programs. While this recent deal may not drastically change the existing dynamics, it could expedite military transfers, especially in light of North Korea's aid to Russia during its invasion of Ukraine. The mutual defense clause is perplexing as North Korea doesn't face an immediate invasion threat, and Russia would be limited in its ability to provide defense due to its ongoing conflict with Ukraine. However, it could act as a "Putin trap," allowing Russia to demand North Korean military support under the guise of mutual defense, especially if it faces increased pressure in Ukraine. On the other hand, Kim Jong-un might view sending troops to Ukraine as a strategic opportunity to gain combat experience and possibly economic benefits for North Korea, similar to what South Korea achieved during the Vietnam War. Although some speculate about a potential Russia-China-North Korea alliance, the differing ambitions of these nations make such a coalition unlikely. China has already shown discomfort with Russia's growing ties with North Korea and other countries in Asia. South Korea's response, including the threat of sending weapons to Ukraine, reflects the gravity of the situation. For the U.S. and South Korea, it may be time to ramp up public efforts to expose the vulnerabilities in the Russia-North Korea partnership, such as potential instability within North Korea if it continues to deplete its military reserves to aid Russia. In summary, while the agreement could escalate regional tensions, its true impact depends on how both Russia and North Korea proceed with military cooperation and whether external pressure alters their course. Watch this report from Borzzikman discussing the possibility of North Korean soldiers joining the conflict and entering Ukraine. This video is from the channel The Prisoner on Brighteon.com.

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North Korea sending troops to Ukraine as WWIII approaches. North Korea’s Kim Jong Un, Russia’s Vladimir Putin sign mutual defense treaty. North Korea, Russia vow to form NEW WORLD ORDER free of U.S. domination. Sources include: RMX.news Rand.org Brighteon.com
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