As tensions on the Korean Peninsula escalate, the Kremlin has reiterated the clarity of the mutual defense agreement between Russia and North Korea. This statement comes in light of recent events, including a significant act of aggression by North Korea, which destroyed sections of railway linking the two Koreas within its borders. This prompted South Korea to launch a “counter-fire” response, heightening the already brewing tension in the region.
On October 15, North Korea targeted portions of the Gyeongui and Donghae railway lines. The North accused South Korea of using drones to send critical leaflets about its leader, Kim Jong-un, and his daughter, further escalating hostilities. In response, South Korean military sources indicated that the explosions occurred just ten meters from the Military Demarcation Line (MDL), violating the truce agreement, and thus they activated defensive measures. South Korea’s military fired several dozen rounds of heavy machine guns and grenade launchers in response and broadcast a warning to North Korea to cease such actions immediately.
The South Korean Ministry of Unification condemned the attack, stating that both the Gyeongui and Donghae railways, along with connecting roads, were significant cooperative projects established after the inter-Korean summit in 2018. The South Korean government had even provided materials and equipment worth approximately $13.29 million to North Korea at its request. The ministry emphasized that North Korea still has obligations to repay that loan and must take responsibility for the recent destruction.
Experts noted that while the destroyed roads had long been closed, North Korea is known for using such destructive acts to send political messages and this highlights Kim Jong-un’s disinterest in negotiating with the South. When asked about the comprehensive strategic partnership treaty signed between Russia and North Korea in June, which specifies mutual assistance in case of aggression, Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov stated, “It is quite clear, emphasizing that the treaty signifies deeper strategic cooperation in all areas, including security.”
Russian President Vladimir Putin signed this agreement during his visit to North Korea in June, where Kim Jong-un referred to him as North Korea’s “dear friend.” When probed further about whether the treaty implied Russia’s potential support for North Korea in a conflict on the peninsula or if North Korea might back Russia against the West, Peskov reaffirmed, “The language of the treaty is very clear and does not require further clarification.”
Additionally, when asked whether the upcoming partnership treaty between Russia and Iran might include joint defense elements, Peskov declined to provide specifics, stating, “No, we can only discuss its content when it is ready.”
