An Emerging Alliance: Russia, North Korea, Iran, and China

The recent signing of a mutual defense treaty between Russia and North Korea has sparked worries about an evolving alliance including Russia, Iran, North Korea, and China. This group, while not a formal security alliance, shares a common goal to contest the United States-led international order. The treaty between Russia and North Korea signifies a deepening relationship with potential far-reaching impacts on the Asia Pacific region.

Defense Treaty: A Challenge to the U.S. and Its Allies

The agreement between Russia and North Korea encompasses a promise to offer military assistance to each other in the event of war. This development is perceived as a challenge to the United States and its allies, especially in Ukraine and South Korea. Russia has already provided North Korea with short-range missiles and artillery shells, while Iran has supplied weapons and military equipment to Russia. In exchange, Russia is anticipated to offer economic aid and technological support to upgrade North Korea's nuclear weapons and missile program.

China's Delicate Position

China, being a close strategic partner of Russia and North Korea, finds itself in a difficult position. It has been trying to steer clear of the appearance of a China-Russia-North Korea alliance, but the defense treaty between Russia and North Korea muddles this stance. This also brings about concerns for Japan, South Korea, and the United States, who may feel compelled to fortify their own security arrangements as a reaction.

Implications and Responses

The implications of this growing alignment of Russia, Iran, North Korea, and China are significant. It poses a challenge to the rules-based international order and could escalate tensions and potential conflicts in the region. The democratic world should respond with solidarity and bolster their own alliances. Already, there is movement in this direction, with NATO broadening its partnerships to include countries like Australia, New Zealand, South Korea, and Japan.

Further Steps

However, more can be done. Japan and South Korea, in particular, should deliberate on providing direct military aid to Ukraine in response to Russia's actions. Israel should also consider joining the sanctions regime on Russia to counter its pro-Hamas stance. By forging stronger ties among U.S. allies and presenting a united front against the alignment of Russia, Iran, North Korea, and China, the democratic world can more effectively confront the threat posed by this 'alignment of evil'.

The Emerging "Alignment of Evil"

The defense treaty between Russia and North Korea underscores the growing alignment of Russia, Iran, North Korea, and China in challenging the United States-led international order. This emerging alliance poses significant threats to global peace and security. The democratic world should respond with solidarity, reinforcing their own alliances to counter this 'alignment of evil'. Failure to do so could provoke increased tensions and conflicts in the Asia Pacific region and further afield.