Russian President Vladimir Putin lauded North Korea for its unwavering backing of Moscow’s military operations in Ukraine in an article published by the Korean Central News Agency on Tuesday. President Putin’s remarks come just before his anticipated visit to Pyongyang aimed at strengthening ties between the two nations, both possessing nuclear capabilities.
“We highly appreciate that the DPRK (North Korea) is firmly supporting the special military operations of Russia being conducted in Ukraine,” President Putin stated, underscoring the solidarity between the two countries amidst international scrutiny and sanctions.
President Putin highlighted the growing partnership between Russia and North Korea, emphasizing their aligned stance at the United Nations and signaling a desire to elevate bilateral cooperation to new heights. His visit, scheduled for late Tuesday, marks his first to North Korea since the year 2000, underscoring the historical ties between the two countries dating back to North Korea’s inception after World War II.
The relationship between Moscow and Pyongyang has intensified notably since Russia’s 2022 invasion of Ukraine, with experts noting President Putin’s increasing isolation and his search for international allies.
Last year, North Korean leader Kim Jong Un made a rare trip abroad aboard his bulletproof train to meet President Putin at a Russian spaceport, symbolizing the deepening ties between the two nations.
However, allegations from Seoul, Washington, and Kyiv that North Korea has been supplying weapons to Russia for use in Ukraine, in exchange for assistance with its satellite program, have strained international relations. North Korea has vehemently denied these allegations, dismissing them as baseless.
Ahead of Vladimir Putin’s visit, Kremlin officials hinted at the signing of “important documents,” potentially including a comprehensive strategic partnership treaty aimed at enhancing defense cooperation and addressing mutual security concerns.
Experts suggest that while both nations face economic challenges, their current relationship is primarily focused on bolstering defense capabilities and challenging the Western-led international order.
Vladimir Putin’s upcoming trip to North Korea is viewed by analysts as a meeting of two leaders grappling with economic hardships, leveraging their defense ties to assert influence on the global stage.
