The Impact of the Russia-Ukraine War on Russia-North Korea Relations

By Chaewon Hong

The Russia-Ukraine War not only transformed geopolitical dynamics in Europe but also had a significant impact on Russia’s relationship with North Korea. Historically isolated and heavily sanctioned, North Korea has found an opportunistic ally in Russia, which is seeking support in the face of international isolation. This evolving partnership has strategic, military, and economic dimensions, underscoring a mutual goal to counterbalance Western influence and avoid sanctions.

Prior to the invasion, ties were already improving. Andrei Lankov, a historian, states "North Korea has a long history of good relations with Russia, especially when Russia is seen as a counterweight to the United States." This sentiment intensified with growing Western sanctions on both countries. The war served as a turning point. Faced with rising international pressure and military setbacks, Russia turned to North Korea for support. 

One of the most notable aspects of the Russia-North Korea relationship in the context of the Ukraine war is military cooperation. Reports indicate that North Korea has supplied Russia with arms and ammunition, including artillery shells and rockets, which are crucial for sustaining its military operations in Ukraine. According to a 2023 report by the New York Times, "North Korea has covertly shipped munitions to Russia to aid its war effort in Ukraine, evading international sanctions designed to limit the flow of arms." This shows that, in a symbolic gesture of solidarity, Pyongyang became the third country, after Russia and Syria, to recognize the breakaway Ukrainian regions of Donetsk and Luhansk as independent.

The exchange is not unilateral. Russia is believed to be sharing military technology and expertise with North Korea, enhancing the latter's military capabilities. This cooperation extends beyond mere transactions, implying a more profound strategic alignment aimed at bolstering each other's defense capacities against common adversaries. BBC News highlighted that "Russian officials have been seen visiting North Korean defense facilities, signaling deeper military collaboration.”

Economically, the two nations have engaged in mutually beneficial trade, often avoiding international sanctions. Russia has been reportedly supplying North Korea with much-needed resources such as oil and gas, which are vital for its energy-starved economy. In return, North Korea provides Russia with military supplies and possibly other goods. It is also reported that Russia’s clandestine energy shipments to North Korea have helped Pyongyang weather its economic crises, indicating a robust trading network between the two nations.

This trade relationship is essential for both countries. For North Korea, it alleviates some of the pressures from international sanctions, providing resources that might be scarce. For Russia, it opens up a new path for securing military supplies and maintaining economic activity despite Western efforts to isolate it.

During their recent summit in Pyongyang, Putin and Kim Jong-un signed a “Treaty on Comprehensive Strategic Partnership,” emphasizing their shared interests and commitment to countering the imperialist hegemonic policies of the United States. The growing closeness between Russia and North Korea has raised alarms in the West. Concerns about the spread of weapons and the destabilizing impact on regional security are paramount. The international community, particularly the United Nations, is closely monitoring these developments and considering additional sanctions or diplomatic measures to address the situation.

However, the alliance is also facing challenges. Experts warn that North Korea's support for Russia could lead to increased tensions on the Korean peninsula. South Korea, a US ally, may feel compelled to bolster its defenses, increasing the risk of a regional arms race. Additionally, North Korea's domestic economic struggles and dependence on China might limit its ability to fully support Russia's war effort.

In conclusion, the Russia-Ukraine War has significantly reshaped the relationship between Russia and North Korea. Driven by a shared antagonism towards the West, these two isolated states have formed a transactional alliance. While the full implications of this alliance remain unclear, it has the potential to further undermine international security and exacerbate regional tensions.