Putin Visits North Korea, Seeking Military Aid for Ukraine War

Russian President Vladimir Putin has arrived in North Korea to meet with its leader, Kim Jong Un, signaling the deepening alignment between the two countries. This visit marks Putin’s first to North Korea since 2000 and is notable as he has made few overseas trips since invading Ukraine in 2022.

The visit aims to strengthen the partnership between Russia and North Korea, founded on their shared hostility towards the West and driven by Russia’s need for munitions for its war in Ukraine.

Putin’s itinerary includes signing a new strategic partnership agreement with Kim, replacing previous agreements from 1961, 2000, and 2001. The visit is being closely watched globally, especially by the US and South Korea, who have accused North Korea of supplying military aid to Russia. Both countries deny these claims.

Following North Korea, Putin will visit Vietnam, underlining Russia’s ties with another communist-governed nation, which is likely to unsettle the United States. Putin’s trip also comes amid high tensions on the Korean peninsula and ongoing international concern about North Korea’s military ambitions.

This visit reciprocates Kim’s trip to Russia last year and is seen as an opportunity for Putin to bolster support for his war in Ukraine. It also provides a platform for both leaders to demonstrate their defiance against Western pressure and sanctions.