United by massive and strict sanctions imposed by the US-led West, Russian President Vladimir Putin and his North Korean host Kim Jing Un on June 19 entered into a pact that includes a clause requiring the countries to come to each other’s defence if either is attacked. The “breakthrough” deal marks the strongest connection between Moscow and Pyongyang since the end of the Cold War. Putin last visited Pyongyang in 2000 as a newly elected President. Now, nearly a quarter of a century on, he has returned, as he faces isolation from the West. Especially, after Russia’s invasion of Ukraine more than two years ago. For the North Korean leader Kim, Putin’s visit and the deal comes at a time of heightened tensions along the demilitarised zone separating the two Korea. What more does the “breakthrough” deal include for both the leaders? Could this deal a serious blow to what Putin and Kim call “US hegemony”? Watch for more details.