Putin's Defense Pact with North Korea Raises Concerns of Friction with China, US Air Force General Warns

Russian President Vladimir Putin's recent mutual defense agreement with North Korea may create friction with China, historically North Korea's main ally, according to Air Force General C.Q. Brown, chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff. This agreement, signed on Wednesday, could reduce Beijing's influence over its neighbors and negatively impact China's global economic and strategic ambitions. Analysts suggest that the pact could destabilize the region. Brown expressed skepticism about the comprehensiveness of the deal, doubting that Moscow would fulfill North Korea's desires for advanced military technology. The treaty commits both nations to mutual military assistance in case of aggression but is considered non-binding.