Moscow — Pyongyang: Three Eras — Three Treaties

The article provides analysis based on previously unavailable sources regarding the preparation and conclusion of major interstate treaties between the USSR, Russia, and the DPRK. These treaties symbolize significant moments in history, although they do not necessarily determine their threshold. An analysis of their political aspects allows us to understand the nature of the relations between the countries at that time. The circumstances, international and regional events, and bilateral relations that led to the decision to sign these agreements are analyzed. A comparative analysis of the content of these treaties is presented for the first time. Issues related to the implementation of provisions of these agreements over the past six decades are also discussed. Fluctuations of compliance with obligations under these treaties are noted, and factors influencing these fluctuations are analyzed. Special attention is paid to the background and factors that led to the conclusion of a new Comprehensive Strategic Partnership Treaty between the two countries in 2024. Considering the various interpretations that have been presented in the media and academic discourse, a hypothesis is proposed about the non-standard nature of this agreement and its long-term implications. The rapprochement between the leaders of the two countries over the past decade regarding their views on the course of historical events after World War II and the Cold War, as well as their shared concerns about rising tensions and conflict potential on a global and regional level have been a prerequisite for the convergence of their foreign policy strategies. This commonality suggests a long-term period of close cooperation, at least for the current political elites. This promises that the two countries will continue to work together to build a new world order based on shared principles such as sovereignty, equality, and justice. The article contains the proposals to implement certain provisions of the treaty, specifically on cooperation in creating a collective security system in northeast Asia and implementing a project in nuclear energy.

Russia, Democratic People's Republic of Korea (DPRK), Soviet Union, Russian-North Korean relations, Comprehensive Partnership Agreement, economic cooperation with DPRK