Russia and North Korea extend military cooperation

TT

Published 16.22

 

Russian Defense Minister Andrei Belousov, second from left, and North Korean dictator Kim Jong-Un meet to discuss military cooperation. Image from the Russian Defense Ministry. Photo: AP/TT

Russia and North Korea have agreed on “long-term” military cooperation, the Russian Defense Ministry said.

The agreement covers the years 2027-2031, said Moscow Defense Minister Andrei Belousov during a visit to Pyongyang.

North Korea has sent thousands of soldiers as well as missiles and ammunition to support Russia’s offensive war against Ukraine, in exchange for, among other things, economic support and military technology that helps North Korea circumvent harsh sanctions.

In connection with the visit, a memorial monument to soldiers killed in military operations for Russia will be inaugurated.

Russian President Vladimir Putin wants to thank the soldiers “who took part in the combat operations in the Kursk region – and honor the fallen heroes,” he said, according to the Russian state news agency Tass.