The recently signed defence pact between Russia and North Korea is a cause of concern but is no surprise, the White House has said.
Speaking to reporters, White House spokesman John Kirby said the agreement between the two countries was a sign of Russia’s desperation for foreign assistance in the Ukraine war.
The deal has seen both countries vow to help each other if they faced armed aggression, and replaces previous treaties between the countries.Â
Russia said the pact was needed because of “the deep evolution of the geopolitical situation in the world and the region”.
Mr Kirby also said the US would reprioritise planned deliveries of foreign military equipment to go to Ukraine, which is in “desperate need” of more air defence capabilities.