Russian President Vladimir Putin is scheduled to embark on a historic two-day visit to North Korea, marking his first trip to the reclusive nation in 24 years. The visit, confirmed by both Russian and North Korean officials, underscores deepening military cooperation between Moscow and Pyongyang amid heightened tensions with Washington.
Putin’s visit, at the invitation of North Korean leader Kim Jong Un, aims to bolster bilateral ties, particularly in military cooperation, following Kim’s visit to Russia’s Far East last year, their first meeting since 2019.
The trip occurs against the backdrop of international apprehension over an alleged arms agreement between Russia and North Korea. Reports suggest Pyongyang may be supplying munitions to Moscow in exchange for economic aid and technological transfers that could enhance North Korea’s nuclear and missile capabilities, violating multiple U.N. Security Council resolutions.
Andrei Lankov, an expert on North Korea, suggests Pyongyang seeks advanced weaponry from Moscow in return for artillery and missiles. Despite reservations about sharing military technology, Russia values the ammunition provided by North Korea, crucial in ongoing conflicts.
Putin’s earlier engagement with Pyongyang dates back to 2000 when he met Kim Jong Il, Kim Jong Un’s father. Since then, Russia has appreciated North Korea’s diplomatic support, particularly concerning its military actions in Ukraine, and both countries have cooperated closely in international forums like the United Nations.
Russia’s alignment with China has frequently blocked new U.N. sanctions against North Korea, challenging Western efforts to curb Pyongyang’s ballistic missile tests and nuclear ambitions. In March, Russia’s veto ended U.N. monitoring of North Korean sanctions, sparking criticism of undermining global efforts.
The visit also highlights Putin’s strategy to reinvigorate Soviet-era alliances, including ties with North Korea, despite strains since the Soviet Union’s collapse. Putin’s diplomatic efforts, including a recent luxury car gift to Kim, demonstrate Russia’s persistence in influencing global dynamics through strategic partnerships.
