SEOUL, South Korea (AP) — North Korea ratified a major defense treaty with Russia stipulating mutual military aid, the North’s state media reported Tuesday, as the U.S., South Korea and Ukraine say North Korea has sent thousands of troops to Russia to support its war against Ukraine.

Amidst Russia’s conflict with Ukraine, North Korea’s support underscores an emerging, loose alliance with China, Iran, and Russia that challenges global stability. North Korea’s supply of arms and troops,