Kim Jong-un and Vladimir Putin will meet this Tuesday in Vladivostok. Both countries’ state agencies confirmed the event.
Kim traveled to Russia by train, as South Korea’s Chosun Ilbo reported.
Dmitry Peskov, the Kremlin’s spokesperson, said the focus is on bilateral talks. The leaders will also have a larger meeting with government officials.
A dinner in Kim’s honor is also planned. Kim’s last Russia visit was in 2019.
U.S. sources suggest military cooperation may be the main topic. North Korea has artillery that Russia might find useful.
If a deal occurs, it could lengthen ongoing conflicts.
Kim may ask Russia for energy, food, and weapon aid. North Korea has been testing missiles. Russia seldom shares key technology.
Russia and North Korea have grown closer since Russia’s Ukraine invasion. North Korea is one of the few countries supporting Russian-backed areas in Ukraine.
Trade between the two mainly involves Russian oil going to North Korea. Recent talks indicate North Korea may send workers for reconstruction in war-hit areas.
Global tension is rising around this meeting. Jon Finer, U.S. national security advisor, voiced concern about North Korea supplying Russian forces with arms.
Background
Russia and North Korea share a complex history. During the Cold War, they were allies under the Soviet Union.
But their relations cooled after the USSR’s fall. Still, they share a border and regional interests.
The timing of this meeting is notable. Both countries face international sanctions. A partnership could ease some economic strain.
But it also risks deepening isolation from the international community.