The United States expresses concern over the defense pact between Russia and North Korea, but acknowledges that it was not unexpected.
In a statement, White House national security spokesperson John Kirby emphasized that the agreement reflects Russia’s desperation for foreign assistance in its conflict with Ukraine.
Russian President Vladimir Putin stated that Russia might supply weapons to North Korea in response to Western arming of Ukraine.
Putin also warned South Korea against supplying arms to Ukraine, indicating that Moscow would respond in a way that would be detrimental to Seoul.
Prior to these developments, the White House had already been discussing and cautioning about the growing defense relationship between Russia and North Korea.
They have publicly shared information about North Korea’s support for Russia in the conflict in Ukraine, including weapons transfers.
The United States and Ukraine assert that North Korea has already provided Russia with significant quantities of artillery shells and ballistic missiles, although both Moscow and Pyongyang deny these claims.
The Biden administration has been actively strengthening alliances and partnerships in the Indo-Pacific region, including agreements with Japan and South Korea, the AUKUS pact to supply Australia with nuclear-powered submarines, and increased cooperation with the Philippines.
