Deal with Russia covers immediate military assistance [Video]

North Korea’s deal with Russia will cover immediate military assistance, according to North Korean state media.

Russian President Vladimir Putin and North Korean leader Kim Jong Un vowed in the deal, revealed Wednesday, to offer mutual aid and protection against their enemies — specifically in times of war. Putin traveled to Pyongyang this week to meet with Kim.

Both leaders have confirmed the new strategic partnership — a development that sends a warning to the West. The agreement comes as the U.S. continues to support Ukraine in its war with Russia and has made an effort to deter the north from ramping up threats against South Korea.

Kim said the new partnership rises to the level of an alliance, but Putin has not labeled it as such, The Associated Press reported.

North Korean state media outlined a section of the deal that includes promises about mutual aid in its first iteration of the agreement. The arrangement also …