24 December 2025

The Russia-North Korea Alliance Might Be Destined to Fade

Robert E. Kelly

Key Points and Summary – Russia’s reliance on North Korea is one of the clearest side-stories of the Ukraine war—and it will matter as President Donald Trump pushes for an endgame.

-Facing high artillery burn rates and political limits on mass mobilization, Vladimir Putin needed ammunition and manpower without risking backlash at home.

North Korea Soldiers. Image Credit: KCNA/North Korean State Media.

-Kim Jong Un could supply both, selling shells and exporting soldiers for hard currency.

-In return, Pyongyang likely sought food, banking access to blunt sanctions, and discreet help improving missile testing, guidance, and re-entry.

-Yet this partnership looks transactional rather than durable and may fade as the war’s pressure eases for both sides.

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