NEW DELHI: Russian President Vladimir Putin arrived in North Korea, marking his first visit to the country in 24 years. This visit comes amid escalating tensions with Washington and aims to fortify the alliance between the two nations against US-led sanctions.
Upon arrival, Putin was warmly welcomed at Pyongyang’s airport by North Korean leader Kim Jong Un.The two leaders shared a handshake and an embrace before Kim personally escorted Putin to the Kumsusan State Guest House, as reported by North Korea’s Korean Central News Agency (KCNA). The agency heralded their meeting as a historic event underscoring the “invincibility and durability” of their countries’ friendship and unity.
In statements made before his arrival, Putin expressed gratitude for North Korea’s unwavering support of Russia’s military actions in Ukraine. He emphasized the mutual resolve of both nations to oppose Western efforts to block the establishment of a “multipolar world order based on justice and mutual respect for sovereignty.”
Putin’s visit raises concerns about a possible arms agreement wherein North Korea supplies Russia with munitions for its war in Ukraine in exchange for economic aid and technological advancements for Kim’s nuclear weapons program. The streets of Pyongyang were adorned with portraits of Putin and Russian flags, and banners proclaimed a warm welcome for the Russian president.
Highlighting the deepening cooperation, Putin announced plans to develop trade and payment systems independent of Western control and to jointly oppose what he called “illegal, unilateral restrictions.” Both nations are heavily sanctioned; North Korea for its nuclear ambitions and missile tests, and Russia for its invasion of Ukraine in 2022.
The Kremlin noted that Putin’s entourage includes several top officials, and multiple agreements are expected to be signed, possibly covering a comprehensive strategic partnership. Putin also pledged to enhance collaboration in tourism, culture, and education.
Prior to his North Korea visit, Putin stopped in Yakutsk, Russia, to discuss regional technology and defense projects. His delegation includes Deputy Prime Minister Denis Mantrurov, Defense Minister Andrei Belousov, and Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov.
US and South Korean officials have accused North Korea of supplying Russia with artillery, missiles, and other military equipment, potentially in violation of UN Security Council sanctions. Both Pyongyang and Moscow deny these accusations.
US Secretary of State Antony Blinken commented on Putin’s visit, highlighting Russia’s desperation to forge alliances with countries like North Korea and Iran to sustain its war efforts in Ukraine. NATO Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg and South Korean officials reiterated concerns over the potential strengthening of North Korea’s missile and nuclear capabilities due to Russian support.
After North Korea, Putin plans to visit Vietnam to discuss trade. The US has criticized this visit, emphasizing that no country should support Putin’s war of aggression against Ukraine.
Putin’s visit underscores his efforts to restore Russia’s influence and reestablish Soviet-era alliances, despite international sanctions and condemnation.
Upon arrival, Putin was warmly welcomed at Pyongyang’s airport by North Korean leader Kim Jong Un.The two leaders shared a handshake and an embrace before Kim personally escorted Putin to the Kumsusan State Guest House, as reported by North Korea’s Korean Central News Agency (KCNA). The agency heralded their meeting as a historic event underscoring the “invincibility and durability” of their countries’ friendship and unity.
In statements made before his arrival, Putin expressed gratitude for North Korea’s unwavering support of Russia’s military actions in Ukraine. He emphasized the mutual resolve of both nations to oppose Western efforts to block the establishment of a “multipolar world order based on justice and mutual respect for sovereignty.”
Putin’s visit raises concerns about a possible arms agreement wherein North Korea supplies Russia with munitions for its war in Ukraine in exchange for economic aid and technological advancements for Kim’s nuclear weapons program. The streets of Pyongyang were adorned with portraits of Putin and Russian flags, and banners proclaimed a warm welcome for the Russian president.
Highlighting the deepening cooperation, Putin announced plans to develop trade and payment systems independent of Western control and to jointly oppose what he called “illegal, unilateral restrictions.” Both nations are heavily sanctioned; North Korea for its nuclear ambitions and missile tests, and Russia for its invasion of Ukraine in 2022.
The Kremlin noted that Putin’s entourage includes several top officials, and multiple agreements are expected to be signed, possibly covering a comprehensive strategic partnership. Putin also pledged to enhance collaboration in tourism, culture, and education.
Prior to his North Korea visit, Putin stopped in Yakutsk, Russia, to discuss regional technology and defense projects. His delegation includes Deputy Prime Minister Denis Mantrurov, Defense Minister Andrei Belousov, and Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov.
US and South Korean officials have accused North Korea of supplying Russia with artillery, missiles, and other military equipment, potentially in violation of UN Security Council sanctions. Both Pyongyang and Moscow deny these accusations.
US Secretary of State Antony Blinken commented on Putin’s visit, highlighting Russia’s desperation to forge alliances with countries like North Korea and Iran to sustain its war efforts in Ukraine. NATO Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg and South Korean officials reiterated concerns over the potential strengthening of North Korea’s missile and nuclear capabilities due to Russian support.
After North Korea, Putin plans to visit Vietnam to discuss trade. The US has criticized this visit, emphasizing that no country should support Putin’s war of aggression against Ukraine.
Putin’s visit underscores his efforts to restore Russia’s influence and reestablish Soviet-era alliances, despite international sanctions and condemnation.
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