CaliToday (22/9/2025): Despite the public rhetoric of "brotherly camaraderie," North Korea is reportedly furious over Russia's slow and inadequate reciprocation for its massive military aid, leading to a significant strain in their alliance. A new study published by Germany’s Frankfurter Allgemeine Zeitung reveals that behind the scenes, the relationship between Moscow and Pyongyang is far from ideal.
Weapons Sent, But Few Benefits Received
According to the study, authored by researcher Elena Guseynova from the Hankuk University of Foreign Studies, North Korea has provided Russia with a staggering $9.8 billion worth of weapons, ammunition, and even soldiers. This contribution represents more than a third of North Korea's entire economy.
In return, Moscow has reportedly provided only a fraction of the value in aid, consisting of food, oil, and a small amount of equipment, estimated to be worth no more than $1.2 billion.
This vast disparity has not gone unnoticed in Pyongyang. South Korean intelligence sources confirm that North Korean leader Kim Jong Un has complained directly to Vladimir Putin about the imbalance. However, instead of receiving assurances, Kim was allegedly met with reproaches. Citing the German report, South Korea's Dong-A Ilbo newspaper states bluntly: "North Korea is extremely angry at Russia's actions."
Moscow "Holding Pyongyang Hostage"
Experts believe the Kremlin is deliberately drip-feeding aid to keep North Korea dependent and maintain leverage over its smaller partner. "Moscow is 'holding Pyongyang hostage' and exploiting its weaknesses," Guseynova asserts in her research.
This view is echoed by European officials who are closely monitoring the alliance. Marie-Agnes Strack-Zimmermann, a Member of the European Parliament, commented on the situation, stating, "Putin is using North Korea as a puppet to demonstrate influence in the Indo-Pacific region."
North Korea Looks to China for an Exit
According to South Korean lawmakers briefed on the intelligence, Kim Jong Un is deeply disappointed by the lack of any prospect for a long-term, strategic alliance with Russia. Putin reportedly avoided any discussion about the future during their negotiations, leading Pyongyang to fear that the Kremlin's aid will cease abruptly once the war in Ukraine concludes.
As a result of this strategic mistrust, North Korea is once again attempting to strengthen its relationship with its traditional ally, China. The lopsided deal with Russia has seemingly pushed Pyongyang to hedge its bets and seek a more reliable and balanced partnership with Beijing, revealing deep cracks beneath the surface of the publicly celebrated Russia-North Korea axis.
