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.

SOCHI, Russia (Reuters) - President Vladimir Putin said on Thursday that Russia's strategic partnership agreement with North Korea was a sign of stability in the region. Putin said that it remained to be seen whether or not Russia would hold military drills with North Korea.

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,