Pyongyang: North Korean leader Kim Jong-un has ratified a defense pact with Russia, as reported by the North's state media on Tuesday, aligning with Pyongyang's decision to deploy troops to Russia in support of Moscow's ongoing invasion of Ukraine. According to Yonhap News Agency, the treaty, described as a "comprehensive strategic partnership," was formalized the day prior through a decree from Kim Jong-un. The Korean Central News Agency (KCNA) detailed that the treaty will be effective immediately upon both nations exchanging ratification instruments. Originally signed in Pyongyang in June by Kim and Russian President Vladimir Putin, the treaty entails mutual military assistance in the event of an attack on either country. A photo published by KCNA on June 20, 2024, shows Kim Jong-un shaking hands with Vladimir Putin after the treaty signing, symbolizing the strengthened ties between the two nations. Russia's TASS news agency reported Putin's signing of the pact on Saturday, a move covered by North Korea' s Rodong Sinmun daily, indicating the increasing closeness between North Korea and Russia. Since the treaty's inception in June, military relations between North Korea and Russia have intensified significantly. The United States has confirmed that approximately 10,000 North Korean troops have been dispatched to Russia's western front-line Kursk region, potentially positioning them for combat against Ukrainian forces. This development has led to speculation that North Korean troops may soon be actively engaged in combat operations. Regarding the KCNA report, an anonymous official from South Korea's unification ministry confirmed that both North Korea and Russia have completed their treaty ratification procedures, pending the formal exchange of ratification instruments. The process can occur through diplomatic channels or during a high-level exchange ceremony. The official also noted that the timing of the treaty's ratification might be influenced by various factors, such as the United States presidential el ection, suggesting that the treaty could be strategically linked to the deployment of North Korean troops in Russia. A recent TASS report highlighted Putin's mention of possible joint military exercises between the two countries, indicating a further deepening of their military cooperation.