Russia ratifies military alliance with North Korea as troops prepare for deployment

Russia's Federation Council has ratified a military alliance with North Korea, enhancing their strategic partnership. This treaty, signed by President Putin and Kim Jong Un in June, includes mutual military assistance if either country is attacked. The ratification follows the State Duma's approval on October 24 and coincides with reports of 10,000 North Korean troops in Russia's Kursk region, preparing to support Russia in its conflict with Ukraine. This marks North Korea's first significant military involvement since the Korean War. Both countries have denied Western claims about troop deployment, stating their cooperation is lawful. Concerns remain among Western and South Korean officials regarding potential technology transfers that could boost North Korea's nuclear and missile capabilities.