Story perspectives

Russia and North Korea Strengthen Ties Amid Ukraine Conflict

4/21/2026

Summary

Story summary

Russian Interior Minister Vladimir Kolokoltsev visited North Korea to discuss law enforcement cooperation, according to ministry spokeswoman Irina Volk.
The visit signals growing Russia-North Korea ties since the 2022 invasion of Ukraine.
In 2024, the two nations signed a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership Treaty that includes mutual defense provisions.
As part of this agreement, North Korea deployed about 14,000 soldiers to support Russian forces in the Kursk region during a Ukrainian incursion.

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Story summary

Russian Interior Minister Vladimir Kolokoltsev visited North Korea to discuss law enforcement cooperation, according to ministry spokeswoman Irina Volk.
The visit signals growing Russia-North Korea ties since the 2022 invasion of Ukraine.
In 2024, the two nations signed a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership Treaty that includes mutual defense provisions.
As part of this agreement, North Korea deployed about 14,000 soldiers to support Russian forces in the Kursk region during a Ukrainian incursion.