Putin says Russia, North Korea vowed to help each other in case of attack | World news

Russian President Vladimir Putin and North Korean leader Kim Jong Un have signed a new partnership agreement that includes a promise of mutual assistance in the event of an attack on either country. Both countries are facing an escalation of conflicts with the West.

It was not clear what kind of support the agreement, described as a “comprehensive strategic partnership,” would require.

Putin’s first visit to North Korea in 24 years comes amid growing concerns over an arms deal in which the country will supply Moscow with much-needed munitions for the war in Ukraine in return for economic aid and technology transfers that could exacerbate the threat posed by North Korea’s nuclear weapons and missile programs.

According to Russian state news agencies, Putin added that Russia would not rule out military-technical cooperation with North Korea under the agreement.

According to Ria Novosti, Kim said the agreement was peaceful and defensive in nature. “I have no doubt that it will be a driving force that accelerates the creation of a new multipolar world,” Kim was quoted as saying.

Russia and North Korea also signed agreements on cooperation in the fields of healthcare, medical education and science, Russian state media reported, citing the Kremlin’s website.