Moscow: Russia’s upper house of parliament has ratified a treaty with North Korea that establishes a mutual commitment to provide military assistance in the event of an armed attack, as reported by Russian media. This “comprehensive strategic partnership” treaty was unanimously ratified by the Federation Council, following its signing during a summit in June between Russian President Vladimir Putin and North Korean leader Kim Jong-un.

According to Yonhap News Agency, President Putin submitted the pact to both the lower and upper houses on October 14. The State Duma, Russia’s lower house, ratified the treaty on October 24. The ratification process will be completed once signed by Putin, after which the treaty will take effect indefinitely following the exchange of ratification documents between Russia and North Korea.

The treaty includes a clause requiring both nations to provide military support “without delay” if either is attacked. This ratification occurs against a backdrop of increasing tensions, as Nor
th Korea has reportedly sent troops to support Russia in its ongoing conflict with Ukraine.