On June 19, 2024, Russian President Vladimir Putin made a historic visit to North Korea, his first in 24 years, to meet with North Korean leader Kim Jong-un. The landmark visit culminated in the signing of a new foundational document, laying the groundwork for long-term bilateral relations between Russia and North Korea. This agreement is poised to include military cooperation and the development of alternative trade mechanisms not under Western control and is expected to solidify the strategic partnership between the two nations amid rising tensions on the Korean peninsula and global sanctions. Putin was welcomed with grandeur in Pyongyang, where Kim Jong-un expressed ‘full support’ for Russia’s military actions in Ukraine and committed to bolstering strategic ties with Moscow. Putin, in turn, praised North Korea for its resistance to US economic pressure and signaled Russia’s intention to support North Korea’s sovereignty and security. The visit, which included discussions on security issues and economic cooperation, is seen as a significant development in reshaping Russia-North Korea relations and may signal a shift in Russia’s approach to the isolated nation. While the West has expressed concern over the security implications of this partnership, particularly regarding potential military support such as artillery and missile technology, both Russia and North Korea have denied allegations of arms shipments. The comprehensive strategic partnership treaty discussed during the visit outlines prospects for further cooperation and joint opposition to sanctions.
Key points
- Russian President Vladimir Putin visited North Korea, signing a foundational document for long-term bilateral relations with leader Kim Jong-un.
- North Korea expressed full support for Russia’s military actions in Ukraine and pledged to strengthen strategic ties.
- Putin and Kim discussed developing alternative trade mechanisms and military cooperation, despite Western sanctions.
