North Korea ratified a major defense treaty with Russia, promising mutual military support, as reports indicate thousands of North Korean troops are already in Russia aiding its war in Ukraine.

The Comprehensive Strategic Partnership, signed by Kim Jong Un and Vladimir Putin in June, will take effect with a document exchange.

The treaty requires mutual military assistance if either country is attacked and aims to build a multipolar world order, ABC News has reported.

Intelligence suggests North Korea has sent arms and troops to Russia, raising concerns that Russia may provide North Korea with technology to advance its nuclear and missile programs.

Written by B.C. Begley