North Korea and Russia Solidify Defense Pact Amid Ukraine Conflict

North Korea has ratified a mutual defense treaty with Russia, committing both nations to assist each other in the event of an armed attack. This development follows reports of North Korean troops engaging in clashes in the Russian border region of Kursk. The treaty, signed during a visit by Russian President Vladimir Putin to Pyongyang in June, has been ratified by both countries' leaders. Western nations have expressed concern over North Korea's military support to Russia, including the deployment of troops and potential training on ballistic missiles, amid the ongoing conflict in Ukraine.