Recently, experts have been actively discussing the potential formation of an alliance between China, North Korea, and Russia. Previously, it was believed that China would not join any formal alliances. However, China’s Foreign Ministry has confirmed an upcoming visit of North Korea’s leader to China—his first since 2019.
Despite ongoing discussions, analysts remain skeptical about a strong alliance forming. China still considers North Korea within its sphere of influence and is dissatisfied with Pyongyang’s recent actions, especially since the start of Russia’s war against Ukraine. Analysts suggest that North Korea's visit is more about showing respect to China than establishing a robust tripartite alliance.
Experts also evaluate the roles of China and the United States in upcoming security guarantee negotiations, particularly regarding the possibility of creating a demilitarized zone in eastern Ukraine. China could become the fifth party in these talks, joining the US, Ukraine, Russia, and Europe. There is also discussion about possible UN involvement in patrolling the proposed demilitarized zone.
The involvement of international missions, the drawing of demilitarized zone boundaries, and the likeliness of real compromise remain key issues for ongoing debate.
