Russian President Vladimir Putin is set to embark on a two-day visit to North Korea starting Tuesday, as confirmed by both countries. The visit comes at a time of heightened international apprehension regarding their military collaboration.
During his visit, Putin is expected to engage in talks with North Korean leader Kim Jong Un, further solidifying their alignment in response to escalating tensions with Washington. This trip marks Putin's first visit to North Korea in 24 years.
The official Korean Central News Agency announced that Putin will undertake a state visit on Tuesday and Wednesday at the invitation of Kim. While details from North Korean state media are awaited, Russia has also confirmed the visit.
There are mounting concerns about a potential arms deal between the two nations, with speculations that Pyongyang might be supplying Moscow with munitions to support Putin's military operations in Ukraine. In return, Russia could be offering economic aid and technology transfers that could enhance North Korea's nuclear weapons and missile program.
Since Kim's meeting with Putin in the Russian Far East last September, military, economic, and other forms of cooperation between North Korea and Russia have significantly increased.
Accusations have been made by U.S. and South Korean officials regarding North Korea's alleged provision of artillery, missiles, and other military equipment to Russia to aid in the conflict in Ukraine. Both countries have denied these allegations.
Any potential weapons trade with North Korea would violate multiple U.N. Security Council resolutions, which Russia, as a permanent member of the council, has previously endorsed.
Experts suggest that Pyongyang hopes to receive advanced weaponry from Moscow in exchange for providing artillery munitions and short-range ballistic missiles. While Russia may be hesitant to share its cutting-edge military technologies, it is reportedly eager to acquire munitions from North Korea.
Kim appears to be preparing an elaborate celebration for Putin's visit, possibly including a grand parade in Pyongyang, as he seeks to showcase the strength of their relationship to his domestic audience.
Putin's visit to North Korea has raised concerns about potential further military cooperation between the two countries, with fears that it could destabilize the region. However, for Kim Jong Un, this visit is seen as a significant victory that enhances North Korea's standing on the global stage.
Putin's efforts to strengthen ties with Pyongyang are viewed as part of Russia's broader strategy to regain its global influence and revive Soviet-era alliances. The relationship between Moscow and North Korea has seen a resurgence since Kim Jong Un's initial meeting with Putin in 2019.
