The new pact between Russia and North Korea

Source: The post the new pact between Russia and North Korea has been created, based on the article “Why the Russia-North Korea pact is a big deal” published in “Indian express” on 20th June 2024

UPSC Syllabus Topic: GS Paper2-international relations- Bilateral, regional and global groupings and agreements.

Context: The article discusses a new military pact between Russia and North Korea. This agreement promises immediate military support if either country is attacked. The pact strengthens their alliance, raises security concerns in South Korea and Japan, and impacts global geopolitical dynamics.

What is the historical context of Russia-North Korea relations?

After World War II, the Soviet Union supported the establishment of a communist regime in North Korea.

The USSR provided military aid to North Korea during the Korean War.

In 1961, the USSR and North Korea signed the Russo-North Korea Treaty of Friendship, Cooperation, and Mutual Assistance.

Relations declined after the Soviet Union dissolved in 1991.

Russia and North Korea’s relations improved in the early 2000s under Putin.

In 2022, Russia’s invasion of Ukraine further strengthened their alliance.

What is the new pact between Russia and North Korea?

1. Immediate Military Assistance: Russia and North Korea agreed to provide immediate military support if either is attacked.
2. Historical Context: The pact echoes the 1961 Russo-North Korea Treaty of Friendship, Cooperation, and Mutual Assistance.
3. Article 4: According to Article 4, if either nation is attacked, the other will provide military and other assistance without delay, in line with Article 51 of the UN Charter and the laws of both nations.

4.Technological Cooperation: The pact includes unspecified technological assistance, likely crucial for North Korea’s missile and nuclear programs.

What are the impacts of the new pact between Russia and North Korea?

1. Technological Support: It involves technological assistance, potentially helping North Korea improve missile guidance and nuclear capabilities.
2. Regional Security Concerns: South Korea and Japan perceive this as a direct threat, prompting them to reconsider their defense strategies and potentially strengthen military capabilities.
3. Global Diplomatic Reactions: NATO and the U.S. have expressed concerns. This pact could lead to further military alliances between authoritarian states, increasing global tensions and nuclear proliferation risks.
4. China’s Dilemma: While the pact strengthens the anti-Western bloc, it might reduce China’s influence over North Korea, complicating regional politics.

Question for practice:

Discuss the provisions and impacts of the new military pact between Russia and North Korea.