Russia's Deepening Ties with North Korea Amid Ukraine War

Strategic Insights -

Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov is set to visit North Korea this weekend, as the two countries strengthen their military ties. The visit marks the second round of strategic dialogue between the two nations, with North Korea having become one of Moscow's key allies during its invasion of Ukraine. Thousands of North Korean soldiers have been deployed to support Russia's war efforts, with around 600 reported killed and thousands wounded.

Key Takeaways:

  • Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov will visit North Korea on July 11-13 for the second round of strategic dialogue between the two countries.
  • North Korea has become one of Russia's main allies during its invasion of Ukraine, deploying thousands of soldiers and sending container loads of weapons to support the Kremlin's efforts.
  • Around 600 North Korean soldiers have been killed and thousands more wounded fighting for Russia, according to Seoul.
  • North Korea's official Korean Central News Agency reported on Lavrov's visit, stating that he had been invited by the DPRK Foreign Ministry.
  • Russia's security chief Sergei Shoigu has visited Pyongyang multiple times this year, including last month, when the two countries marked the one year anniversary of the signing of a military pact.
  • The military pact between Russia and North Korea includes a mutual defence clause and plans for North Korea to send builders and deminers to Russia's Kursk region.
  • The frequency of senior Russian officials' visits to Pyongyang is considered "highly unusual" by experts, with some speculating that plans for North Korean leader Kim Jong Un's anticipated visit to Russia may be discussed.

Statistics:

  • 600: The number of North Korean soldiers reported killed fighting for Russia in Ukraine.
  • Thousands: The number of North Korean soldiers wounded fighting for Russia in Ukraine.
  • 2-3 years: The duration of Russia's invasion of Ukraine, during which North Korea has become a key ally, deploying thousands of soldiers and sending military aid.
  • 1 year: The anniversary of the signing of the military pact between Russia and North Korea, marked by a visit from Russian security chief Sergei Shoigu.

Sources:

  • AFP
  • Korean Central News Agency