As Russia Courts Authoritarian Allies, the Democratic World Remains United

Russia is seeking to assemble a coalition with countries such as North Korea, Iran, Syria, and, to some extent, China. However, this effort will not help it confront the entire democratic world, which continues to support Ukraine. This was stated by Michael Carpenter, Senior Director for Europe at the US National Security Council.

On June 19, the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea and the Russian Federation signed an agreement for a “comprehensive strategic partnership” during Putin’s first official visit to North Korea in 24 years. This agreement marks a significant shift in the geopolitical landscape, as it deepens the ties between two nations that have long been isolated on the world stage. The partnership is expected to encompass various strategic areas, including military cooperation and economic exchanges, further solidifying their alliance.

“[Russia’s] closest partners in the world have become North Korea, Iran, Syria, and then to some extent China, which, although it does not provide Russia with weapons, sends a lot of dual-purpose products for the production of advanced weapons systems,” Carpenter noted.

Carpenter clarified that he was talking about materials like nitrocellulose used to manufacture gunpowder, as well as optics and machines for the Russian military industry.

NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg emphasized that the signing of the strategic partnership agreement between Moscow and Pyongyang necessitates even closer collaboration among Western nations.

“We need to be aware that authoritarian powers are aligning more and more. They are supporting each other in ways we haven’t seen before,” Stoltenberg said during a panel discussion in Ottawa. “When authoritarian regimes like North Korea, China, Iran, and Russia become more aligned, it’s even more important for countries believing in freedom and democracy to stand united.”

As Russia strengthens its ties with authoritarian states, the democratic world remains steadfast in its support for Ukraine, highlighting the growing global divide between authoritarianism and democracy.