Russia ratifies military assistance treaty with North Korea

Russia's upper house of parliament has ratified a military assistance treaty with North Korea. This treaty requires both countries to provide immediate military support if either is attacked. It strengthens ties between Moscow and Pyongyang, marking a significant development since the Cold War. The ratification follows the U.S. confirming the deployment of up to 10,000 North Korean troops to Russia. These troops are reportedly preparing to assist in Russia's conflict in Ukraine, which would be North Korea's first involvement in a large-scale war since the Korean War. Both Russia and North Korea have not confirmed the troop presence but assert their military cooperation is lawful. Concerns have been raised about potential technology transfers from Russia to North Korea that could enhance its nuclear capabilities.