Putin and Kim pledge mutual help against 'aggression'

Vladimir Putin and Kim Jong Un have signed an agreement pledging that Russia and North Korea will help each other in the event of 'aggression' against either country. The Russian president made the announcement following talks with Mr Kim during a lavish visit to Pyongyang, his first since 2000. Mr Kim said it took their relationship to 'a new, high level of alliance'. The pact cements a rapidly blossoming partnership that has worried the West. It could also have significant ramifications for the world, say observers. Any kind of mutual defence treaty could possibly see Moscow assisting Pyongyang in a future conflict on the Korean peninsula, while North Korea could openly help Russia in its war on Ukraine. Mr Kim is already accused of supplying Russia with weapons, while Mr Putin is thought to be giving the North Koreans space technology that could aid their missile programme. The two last met in Russia in September. On Wednesday they signed a 'comprehensive partnership agreement' that included a clause where they agreed to provide 'mutual assistance in the event of aggression' against either country, said Mr Putin. He did not spell out what would constitute aggression. Mr Putin has in recent months faced difficulties on the battlefield in Ukraine, particularly with depleting weapons. During when Mr Kim visited Russia, the two had discussed military cooperation and were suspected of striking an arms deal.