North Korea’s unstable gamble: will Russian alliance embolden aggression?
North korea’s selection to send troops to fight alongside russia in ukraine has sparked worries that kim jong un may use this alliance as leverage to pursue provocations in east asia. Geopolitical analyst Sang Hun Seok warns that Pyongyang’s expanded military cooperation with russia could lead to a more adventurous North Korea, anticipating Russian assistance to deter robust responses from Seoul and Washington.
The value of cooperation
Pyongyang has supplied Russia with about 8 million artillery shells and quick-variety ballistic missiles, given that 2023 is worth $5.5 billion. This considerable contribution has been strengthened by an envisioned 10,000 north korean troops preventing for putin. In the future, north korea may additionally expect a quid pro quo, mainly after the recent mutual protection treaty between moscow and pyongyang.
Implications for regional safety
The access of north korean troops into the ukraine warfare has vast implications for nearby safety. South korea might also reconsider its reticence toward imparting lethal useful resource to ukraine, probably escalating tensions at the korean peninsula. Seoul may also need to keep in mind the possibility of north korea obtaining advanced navy technology and information from russia.
Expert insights
Edward Howell, a Korea Foundation fellow at Chatham residence, notes that north Korea’s involvement in ukraine provides precious fight experience in a present day, international conflict. This will embolden pyongyang to ramp up provocations in opposition to seoul. Meanwhile, sang hun seok cautions that Russia’s pressing attention on its very own warfare efforts may mood north korea’s expectancies.
Key takeaways
- North Korea’s alliance with Russia may result in improved aggression in East Asia.
- Pyongyang’s military cooperation with Russia provides treasured fights to enjoy.
- South Korea faces difficult decisions on providing lethal resources to Ukraine.
- Russia’s help for North Korea at the global stage complicates local safety dynamics.
