North Korea and Russia have signed a new agreement during President Vladimir Putin's recent visit, reviving aspects of their former Cold War alliance.

This pact includes a commitment to provide immediate military assistance if either country faces armed aggression.

The agreement, considered a "comprehensive strategic partnership," echoes elements of a 1961 treaty that was annulled in 1990 when the Soviet Union established relations with South Korea.

Under Article 4 of the agreement, both nations pledge to deploy all available means, in accordance with Article 51 of the U.N. Charter and their respective laws, if one is invaded and at war.

This move is seen as a significant step in Asia by Moscow, amidst concerns from the United States and its allies over Russia's potential support for North Korea, the only nation to have conducted nuclear tests in this century.

The leaders, Putin and Kim, emphasized their deepening ties as a response to Western hegemony and imperialist policies, particularly citing support for Ukraine by the United States.

The pact also prohibits either side from signing treaties with third countries that would undermine the other's interests or allow their territory to be used against each other's security and sovereignty.

The agreement further outlines joint actions aimed at enhancing defense capabilities to prevent conflicts and ensure regional and global peace and security.

Responses to the agreement from South Korea, the United States, and other nations have varied, with Japan expressing grave concerns about potential military technology cooperation between Russia and North Korea.

The agreement also includes cooperation on nuclear energy, space exploration, and food and energy security. Analysts note similarities to the 1961 treaty but highlight that the legal framework surrounding the new agreement leaves room for interpretation, and its exact implications on forming an alliance remain unclear.