(RepublicanJournal.org) – Tensions between the United States and Russia have been growing for years, and they’ve only intensified since the latter invaded Ukraine. The US has been a major provider of munitions to the war-torn country, putting President Joe Biden at even further odds with Russian leader Vladimir Putin. The US also doesn’t have the best diplomatic relations with North Korea. We might have even more reason to be concerned after the two adversaries signed a recent defense pact.
On Wednesday, Putin and North Korean Supreme Leader Kim Jong-un met and signed a defense treaty at a summit in Pyongyang. Putin called it “a truly breakthrough document” and Kim agreed that it was a good move for the two nations, elevating their relations to an alliance. Both of the countries — and their leaders — have been sanctioned, essentially isolating them from the rest of the world, for actions they’ve carried out in their quests to gain power.
Putin’s visit to North Korea was his first in 24 years. Kim visited Russia last year in hopes of strengthening the ties between the two. The North Korean leader welcomed Putin with a lavish ceremony in Kim Il Sung Square, named for the country’s founder and Kim’s grandfather. The two then headed to the summit, which took place at Kumsusan Palace.
Russian state media reported that the two leaders spoke one-on-one for more than two hours and exchanged gifts. Putin gifted Kim a limo, a dagger, and a tea seat, while Kim gifted Putin artwork and busts depicting the Russian leader.
It’s not exactly clear what’s in the defense treaty, other than a pact to come to the other’s defense should one be targeted. US intelligence officials believe the two might be exchanging munitions, too, which would aid Russia in its quest to overtake Ukraine.
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