Russian President Vladimir Putin and North Korean leader Kim Jong Un in Pyongyang on Wednesday. (Korean Central News Agency/Korea News Service/AP)
On Wednesday, Russian President Vladimir Putin and North Korean leader Kim Jong Un signed a “comprehensive strategic partnership” treaty, marking a significant development in the growing cooperation among Russia, China, Iran, and North Korea. This treaty highlights a troubling trend in global politics, where these authoritarian regimes are increasingly united in their opposition to the U.S.-led international order.
Growing Threats from the “Alignment of Evil”
This alliance does not equate to a formal military pact like NATO or the Warsaw Pact. However, it represents a concerted effort to challenge the influence of the United States and its allies. North Korea has already supplied Russia with short-range missiles and millions of artillery shells for use in Ukraine. In exchange, Russia, which once supported sanctions against North Korea, has blocked U.N. efforts to monitor North Korean compliance with those sanctions. More concerning is Russia’s promise to provide North Korea with economic aid and technological assistance, potentially enhancing North Korea’s nuclear capabilities and posing greater risks to South Korea, Japan, and the U.S.
Iran is another key player, supplying Russia with artillery shells, drones, and ballistic missiles. Tehran has also established a drone factory in Russia and is set to receive advanced Russian military equipment in return. This burgeoning military relationship deepens the ties forged when Russia intervened in Syria to support Iran’s ally, Bashar al-Assad.
China, while not supplying munitions, has provided crucial dual-use components to Russia. These materials have been vital in sustaining Russia’s war efforts in Ukraine. According to U.S. intelligence, China’s support has significantly bolstered Russia’s military capabilities, impacting the battlefield dynamics in Ukraine.
Internal Frictions and Global Implications
Despite their cooperation, these authoritarian regimes face internal frictions. Beijing is likely uneasy about Pyongyang’s closeness to Moscow, which may dilute Chinese influence in North Korea. Similarly, Russia and China have disputes over the Siberia 2 pipeline project, with negotiations stalling due to disagreements on pricing and purchase commitments.
Nevertheless, the democratic world cannot afford to overlook the growing threat posed by this “alignment of evil.” Increased solidarity among democracies is essential. Recent developments, such as the participation of Australia, New Zealand, South Korea, and Japan in NATO summits, indicate a positive shift toward stronger alliances. These nations have implemented sanctions on Russia and provided aid to Ukraine. Although Japan and South Korea have not directly supplied military aid to Ukraine, indirect contributions have been made through the U.S.
Given Russia’s support for North Korea’s military ambitions, it is imperative for Japan and South Korea to consider direct military assistance to Ukraine. Australia, which already provides military aid, should also enhance its support. Israel, which has been hesitant to support Ukraine, could contribute by joining the sanctions regime against Russia, especially in light of Russia’s pro-Hamas stance.
The alignment of authoritarian powers underscores a critical moment for democracies worldwide. To counter the growing threat effectively, democracies must demonstrate unity and resolve, reinforcing their commitment to the rules-based international order. The “alignment of evil” seeks to dismantle this order, and it is up to the democratic world to stand firm in defense of global stability and security.
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