Russian President Putin and North Korean leader Kim Jong Un recently met for summit talks at the Kumsusan Palace, where Putin praised North Korea’s support for Russian policy, including on Ukraine. Kim reciprocated by expressing that Russia-North Korea relations were entering a new period of prosperity and pledged full support for Russia’s war in Ukraine. The two leaders shared a heartfelt embrace at Pyongyang International Airport before heading to the guest house where Putin would be staying.
Putin’s visit to North Korea is aimed at deepening ties between the two nations, with the highlight expected to be a new strategic agreement that will enhance military and economic cooperation as both countries seek to bypass global sanctions. This agreement could pave the way for arms trade and create an anti-U.S. and anti-West coalition, which is a cause of concern for officials in the West. There are fears that North Korea may gain access to oil and natural resources, as well as military technology from Russia, which could pose a threat to regional peace and stability.
The U.S. has accused Russia of strengthening its ties with countries like North Korea in order to continue its war of aggression against Ukraine. U.S. intelligence officials believe that Russia may be providing North Korea with nuclear submarine and ballistic missile technology, which could help the reclusive state develop its own submarine capable of launching a nuclear-armed missile. Both Russia and North Korea have denied any transfer of arms, which would be a violation of U.N. resolutions.
The meeting between Putin and Kim comes at a time of heightened tensions on the Korean Peninsula, with North Korea accelerating its weapons testing and the U.S., South Korea, and Japan conducting joint military drills. Kim’s decision to abandon the goal of unifying with South Korea has raised concerns about a potential attack on the U.S. ally. The two neighboring countries remain technically at war, with occasional border skirmishes and acts of aggression further escalating tensions.
After his visit to North Korea, Putin is expected to travel to Vietnam, which has strengthened its relationship with the U.S. during President Joe Biden’s visit last year. The U.S. has criticized countries for giving Putin a platform to promote his war of aggression and normalize his actions. The international community is closely monitoring the developments in North Korea and Russia, as the strategic agreement between the two countries could have far-reaching implications for regional peace and security.
