Shortly after signing a new comprehensive strategic partnership, Russian President Vladimir Putin and North Korean leader Kim Jong Un showcased their closer ties with a spin in a Russian-made Aurus limousine. In a meticulously orchestrated public relations move, Putin took the wheel first, with Kim grinning broadly in the passenger seat. After a brief drive, a white-gloved aide opened the car doors for the leaders to swap seats, further emphasizing their camaraderie. This new agreement, which replaces the 2000 Friendship, Cooperation and Good Neighbourliness Treaty, includes a mutual defense pact, signaling a dramatic shift in Russia’s stance toward North Korea. Previously, as a veto-holding member of the United Nations Security Council, Russia worked alongside the international community to curb North Korea’s missile and nuclear ambitions. Now, Moscow appears to be offering explicit support to one of the world’s most isolated regimes. The contents of the agreement also echo the 1961 Treaty of Friendship, Cooperation and Mutual Assistance, underscoring a historical alignment.
Eugene Rumer of the Carnegie Endowment interprets this alliance as a logical extension of Putin’s intensified efforts following his 2022 invasion of Ukraine. Putin’s “all-in” approach, driven by an elusive victory, has led to significant diplomatic, security, and economic repercussions, including a deepening alliance with North Korea. The agreement encompasses more than just defense. It includes provisions for cooperation in healthcare, medical education, science, and infrastructure projects such as a road bridge across the Tumen River. North Korean state media released what it claimed was the full text of the agreement, with Kim Jong Un calling it an “alliance” and labeling Russia North Korea’s “most honest friend and ally.” Putin, who was celebrated in Pyongyang with large portraits and Russian flags, described the deal as a “breakthrough document” aimed at elevating bilateral relations to a new level.
The United States and South Korea have accused North Korea of supplying weapons to Russia for use in its war against Ukraine. The US State Department recently reported that North Korea had “unlawfully transferred dozens of ballistic missiles and over 11,000 containers of munitions” to Russia. UN sanctions inspectors found fragments of North Korean missiles in Kharkiv, Ukraine, indicating North Korea’s direct involvement. In return, Russia is believed to be providing technological expertise, evidenced by North Korea’s successful satellite launch shortly after Kim’s visit to Russia’s Vostochny Cosmodrome.
Analysts warn that this agreement signals a strengthening axis of nations opposed to the US and the rules-based international order established post-World War II. Putin emphasized this alignment, stating that Russia and North Korea are resisting “US pressure, blackmail, and military threats” while promoting a “new multi-polar world.” Leif-Eric Easley of Ewha University describes this emerging alliance as an “axis of impunity,” suggesting that while power is central to authoritarian states, their relationships lack the stability seen in US alliances. Easley points out that the US alliances with Japan, South Korea, and NATO are grounded in shared institutions, rule of law, and functional interdependence, making them more credible and durable.
Ramon Pacheco Pardo of King’s College London highlights the transactional nature of North Korea-Russia relations, driven primarily by mutual interests. Historical ties between the two countries have fluctuated, particularly after the collapse of the Soviet Union. Pardo notes that Russia distanced itself from North Korea in the past, supporting UN sanctions in 2006 and delaying meetings with Kim Jong Un until 2019. He speculates that if Russia’s invasion of Ukraine were to end, it might again distance itself from North Korea to seek stronger international relations.
China’s role in this dynamic is crucial. North Korea’s traditional ally, China has also been deepening its ties with Russia. Putin’s first overseas trip after securing his latest term was to China, where he received a red-carpet welcome. Bilateral trade between China and Russia hit a record $240 billion in 2023, with China becoming Russia’s top trade partner. However, Beijing has maintained a cautious stance, emphasizing the bilateral nature of Russia-North Korea agreements to keep its diplomatic options open.
China’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, when asked about Putin’s visit to Pyongyang, referred to the cooperation as a matter between two sovereign states. Analysts suggest that China is attempting to balance its relationships, seeking to stabilize ties with the US and improve relations with Europe and regional neighbors while maintaining its alliance with Russia.
Yun Sun, director of the China program at the Council of Foreign Relations, explains that China aims to avoid being trapped in a rigid alliance with Russia and North Korea. Instead, Beijing seeks flexibility to pursue its broader strategic interests, including warmer relations with Washington and Europe.
The burgeoning partnership between Russia and North Korea, epitomized by the Aurus limousine ride, signals a significant realignment with global implications. It highlights Russia’s willingness to flout UN sanctions it once supported and underscores the complex geopolitical landscape where alliances and enmities are constantly evolving.
