The recent strengthening of ties between Russia and North Korea is concerning, as it could potentially make North Korea a more significant threat, according to Fred Fleitz, vice-chair of the First American Policy Institute’s Center for American Security, during his appearance on Newsmax’s “Wake Up America.”
Fleitz expressed concerns that while Russia might be sourcing arms to counteract Ukraine’s actions, it’s crucial to view this within a larger framework. He mentioned that Putin might be aiming to rekindle the close bond North Korea shared with the Soviet Union prior to its dissolution.
This renewed partnership could empower North Korea to intervene in regional conflicts and advance its missile capabilities, an act which Fleitz views as potentially destabilizing.
A recent article in The New York Times speculated that the collaboration between Russia and North Korea might lead to more aggressive behaviors, thereby weakening China’s attempts to foster good relations with Western countries. However, Walid Phares, also a guest on the show, disagreed. Phares highlighted the emerging partnership among Russia, China, North Korea, and Iran. He also emphasized the potential involvement of African nations in the future.
Phares voiced his fears regarding the possible implications this alliance could have on both U.S. national interests and the broader security dynamics in the northern Pacific. He reminded viewers of the joint naval exercises carried out by China, Russia, North Korea, and other nations, pointing out an incident where a ship from this coalition approached Alaska closely.
Additionally, the conversation touched upon the decision to release $6 billion in previously withheld funds to Iran in return for five American captives. Fleitz criticized this, comparing it to a similar situation in 2016 when the Obama administration made a $1.7 billion payment to secure the release of five U.S. hostages. He recalled a comment by Stephen Colbert, who joked about the semantic debate surrounding the term ‘ransom’ during that time.
