Everyone Loses in the Ukraine War — Except North Korea, Which Gains Big from Russia.png)
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How North Korea and Kim Jong Un Benefited from the Russia-Ukraine Conflict
The Cold War Returns: Divided Camps and Emerging Alliances
The Russia-Ukraine war has reignited global tensions reminiscent of the Cold War era, dividing the world into two main camps: the Russian bloc and the Western alliance led by the US and its partners in Europe, North America, Japan, Australia, and South Korea. While many nations declared neutrality or non-alignment, only a handful openly sided with Russia, defending its narrative and offering support.
North Korea: Russia’s Longtime Ally and Beneficiary
Among Russia’s steadfast allies is North Korea, a country historically backed by Moscow since its founding after the Korean Civil War. Under intense international sanctions and economic hardships, North Korea saw the Ukraine conflict as an opportunity to strengthen its ties with Russia and gain significant benefits.
Benefits for North Korea Amidst the Conflict
Strengthened Ties and Security
By siding firmly with Russia, North Korea reaffirmed its loyalty, securing Moscow’s protection and goodwill. As the saying goes, “He who covers himself with the cloak of Russia never gets cold,” highlighting Moscow’s reputation for staunchly defending its allies, as seen in Syria, Venezuela, and Kazakhstan.
Economic Opportunities
Reports indicate Russia currently hosts nearly 30,000 North Korean workers, and this number is expected to rise. These workers play a vital role in rebuilding efforts in Ukrainian territories under Russian control, providing economic benefits back to Pyongyang.
Military Aid and Training
Russia is expected to open its borders further for North Korea, potentially supplying the country with advanced weapons systems, including hypersonic missiles. Additionally, joint military training in Ukraine will give North Korean forces valuable combat experience, increasing their regional military capabilities and posing a greater threat to South Korea and Japan.
Implications for the Region and the West
North Korea’s growing alliance with Russia serves as a strategic warning to the West. The US and South Korea have recently conducted their largest joint military exercises near the North Korean border, signaling heightened tensions. However, Pyongyang remains defiant and emboldened by Moscow’s support.
North Korea’s nuclear arsenal and ballistic missile capabilities make it a formidable and unpredictable player in East Asia. Its alignment with Russia complicates Western efforts to contain threats in the Pacific and could open a new front in a global power struggle, involving allies like Japan, South Korea, and Taiwan.
Conclusion: A Complex Web of Alliances and Risks
While the Ukraine war has brought devastation to many, North Korea has leveraged the conflict to deepen ties with Russia, enhance its military strength, and bolster its economic standing. This emerging alliance presents a serious challenge for the West and underscores the broader geopolitical ripple effects of the Russia-Ukraine conflict.
