Russia and North Korea: Understanding its Nexus
Russia and North Korea have been tied to each other in the past. Since 1945, when the Soviet Union first backed the establishment of the North Korean government, the two nations have maintained diplomatic relations. From its inception, the USSR has supported North Korea in various ways – from economic aid to nuclear development. The support from Russia toward North Korea is also evident today, as the latter continues to experience economic and political instability. So why does Russia support North Korea’s government despite the country’s volatile history?
When looking at their interactions, the primary reason why Russia supports North Korea is to maintain balance in the international system. Having North Korea as an ally helps Russia by lessening the geopolitical pressure coming from the US in the Northeast Asian region. Russia also has interests in the security of North Korea, as the nation’s poor stability affects Russia’s ability to remain as a dominant power in the region. By providing economic, military, and diplomatic support, Russia – as well as other international powers such as China – are able to protect their interests in the region.
Economic Considerations
Economic ties between the two countries also play an essential role when understanding the Russia- DPRK dynamic. As part of their cooperation, Russia provides economic aid and assistance to North Korea to help facilitate the national development process. This includes various investments in infrastructure projects, as well as partnerships in the energy sector. Additionally, Russia and North Korea also cooperate in trade. According to the Russian Ministry of Industry and Trade, two-way trade between the two countries increased from USD$54 million USD in 2016 to USD$64 million USD in 2018. All of this assistance helps North Korea maintain its independence, while also allowing Russia to have a presence in the region.
Political Motivations
Russia’s political motivations must also be considered when talking about Russian-North Korean ties. According to experts, one of the primary reasons why Russia supports North Korea is to counter US presence in the region. North Korea’s internal political structure is largely anti-Western, and by having it as a partner, Russia is able to maintain a check on US influence in the Northeast Asian region. This political connection is also why Russia is often considered the most influential international power in North Korea.
Security Concerns
It’s also important to note that Russian-North Korean ties also relate directly to security concerns in the region. Due to its direct proximity, North Korea serves as an entry point for Russian warships to access the Pacific Ocean. This access is beneficial for Russia as it allows the nation to better project its power throughout the region. On top of this, Russia also has an agreement with North Korea about providing military aid if necessary – meaning Russia may call upon North Korean forces in times of regional crisis.
The China Connection
The last factor to consider when looking into the Russia-North Korea relationship is their cooperation with China. North Korea has close ties with China, and this relationship is beneficial for both worldwide powers. Having a common partnership in the region helps all three countries maintain peace and stability in the region. It also ensures that the region does not become dominated by any single power.
Russia’s Role in North Korean Reform
Russia also plays an important role in North Korea’s attempts at reform. In recent years, North Korea has started to slowly open up its borders, allowing foreign investors to enter the country. Russia has been an important participant in this process, investing heavily in various North Korean infrastructure projects. Additionally, Russia has also been at the forefront of the US- DPRK talks, advocating for North Korean denuclearization. In this way, Russia strives to strike a balance between its own geopolitical interests and North Korea’s security and development.
North Korea’s Actions
Finally, another factor to consider when talking about Russia-North Korean ties is North Korea’s own actions. Though the nation outwardly proclaims its friendship with Russia, it has taken steps which are perceived as detrimental to the safety and stability of the region. Its continued development of nuclear weapons, as well as its aggressive rhetoric towards other nations, have been sources of tension between the two countries. However, despite these disputes, Russia maintains its positive relationship with the nation.
Contentious Relationship
To sum up, there is no denying that Russia and North Korea maintain a contentious relationship. The two countries have a history of cooperative ties, yet North Korea’s own actions have often strained their alliance. From Russia’s perspective, backing North Korea is beneficial in many ways – yet it is also a risk due to the high potential of a volatile situation. All in all, Russia’s role in supporting North Korea is indicative of the complex nature of international relations.
Geostrategic Power
Geostrategic power is the main driver behind Russia’s partnership with North Korea. By establishing a positive relationship with the nation, Russia is able to use its geopolitical advantage to counter US-led initiatives in the region. Even though North Korea’s own actions sometimes contrast its friendly rhetoric, Russia continues to invest in the country to ensure its presence. As a result, this support has become an integral part of the Russia- North Korea dynamic.
Military Aspects
Another factor to consider when examining the Russia-North Korea relationship is the military aspects. Russia assists North Korea in various military endeavors, including providing arms and technology to help the country strengthen its defenses. Additionally, Russia also cooperates with North Korea when it comes to maintaining security in the region. Consequently, this helps ensure that the region does not become dominated by the US or other competing powers.
Power of Sanctions
Sanctions imposed by the UN and other international organizations pose another factor when it comes to understanding how Russia supports North Korea. Though the sanctions have had economic and political repercussions on North Korea, Russia has still managed to maintain its positive relationship with the nation. This can be attributed to various loopholes and evasive measures used by Russia. As a result, the sanctions have not been able to impede the Russia- North Korea relationship.
Strategic Gains
Ultimately, Russia’s support of North Korea is driven by its own strategic gains. By backing North Korea, Russia is able to maintain its presence as a superpower in the region. This is not only beneficial for Russia, but also for North Korea – as the nation has managed to survive in international affairs despite its tumultuous past. All in all, Russia’s support of North Korea comes down to ensuring its own geopolitical survival.
