Russian defense minister meets North Korean leaders to strengthen military ties

Russian Defense Minister Andrei Belousov visited North Korea for talks with military and political leaders, marking a deepening of cooperation between the two countries amid Russia's ongoing war in Ukraine. The visit follows a strategic partnership agreement signed in June. Belousov emphasized expanding military cooperation and praised North Korea's support for Russia's actions in Ukraine. North Korean officials expressed solidarity with Russia, highlighting their mutual interests in regional security and military collaboration. This visit comes shortly after South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol met with a Ukrainian delegation, discussing countermeasures against North Korea's military support for Russia. South Korea remains cautious about its own military assistance to Ukraine amid rising tensions.