North Korean leader Kim Jong-un arrived in Russia’s far eastern port of Vladivostok on Saturday, where he was shown nuclear-capable bombers. This visit has raised concerns about a potential arms alliance between North Korea and Russia, which could further escalate the conflict in Ukraine.
Kim’s visit to Russia comes at a time of increasing military cooperation between the two countries. North Korea could seek Russian technologies to enhance its military nuclear program, while Russia could receive badly needed munitions in exchange.
During his visit to Vladivostok, Kim is expected to see Russian naval ships, which could indicate his intentions to strengthen his navy against the United States. Analysts suggest that Kim may seek to obtain advanced technologies for ballistic missile submarines and nuclear-propelled submarines from Russia.
Upon arrival in Artyom, Kim was greeted by children presenting flowers, and then he traveled to the Vladivostok airport. There, he was shown Russia’s nuclear-capable strategic bombers and other warplanes, including Russia’s latest missile, the hypersonic Kinzhal.
Kim also visited a plant producing Russia’s Su-57 fighter jets in Komsomolsk-on-Amur. Experts believe that potential military cooperation between North Korea and Russia could involve efforts to modernize North Korea’s outdated air force.
Kim’s trip to Russia aims to strengthen his partnerships with Moscow and Beijing, as he seeks to break out of international isolation and form a united front against the United States. North Korea’s state media has been reporting on Kim’s activities in Russia a day late to fit government propaganda purposes.
Russia has stated that it will abide by U.N. sanctions, which include restrictions on weapons trade with North Korea. Experts believe that any deals on weapons between North Korea and Russia will likely remain undisclosed.
Kim’s visit to Russia is his first foreign trip since the COVID-19 pandemic, and it signifies the North’s post-pandemic openness. In addition, a team of North Korean athletes has departed for the Asian Games in China, another sign of increased engagement with other countries.
The United States and South Korea have condemned the recent moves by Russia and North Korea, emphasizing the need to counter their actions. The U.S. will continue to expose and counter Russian attempts to acquire military equipment, while South Korea and the U.S. will ensure that Russia faces consequences if it assists in advancing North Korea’s weapons program.
Overall, Kim’s visit to Russia highlights the growing military cooperation between the two countries and raises concerns about its implications on the geopolitical landscape.
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