Russia is ready to provide military assistance to North Korea in the event of an attack on the country, according to Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Andrey Rudenko.
The comprehensive strategic partnership agreement with North Korea, which the leaders of both countries signed in June, stipulates this, according to the diplomat.
“If an act of aggression is committed against the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea, all necessary measures will be taken. Article 4 of the agreement specifically addresses the issue of mutual assistance in case of aggression: both parties will provide each other with any necessary assistance, including military support,” Rudenko stated (as quoted by TASS).
Answering journalists’ questions in Islamabad, Rudenko also commented on recent events in North Korea and South Korea, noting that South Korea had undertaken a series of provocative actions that severely undermined stability on the peninsula.
On October 14, Russian President Vladimir Putin submitted a bill to the State Duma to ratify the comprehensive strategic partnership agreement between Russia and North Korea. The chambers of the Russian Federal Assembly appointed Rudenko as the president’s official representative for the ratification issues. The agreement allows one country to receive military and other aid if the other attacks.
Presidential Press Secretary Dmitry Peskov clarified that the treaty’s defense-related provisions are clear and do not require additional clarification.
On October 15, North Korean military forces detonated sections of roads north of the military demarcation line between the countries along the Kyeongui and Donghae lines, effectively cutting off road and rail links with South Korea. In response, South Korea fired shots in the area south of the military demarcation line.
