President Vladimir V. Putin of Russia made a historic visit to North Korea on Wednesday, meeting with leader Kim Jong-un in a show of solidarity against the United States. The two autocrats vowed to deepen their ties and build a joint front against Washington, sparking concerns about increased arms trade between the two countries.
This visit marked the first major head of state visit to North Korea since the pandemic, highlighting the importance of the relationship between Russia and the isolated nation. Mr. Putin’s war in Ukraine has brought the two leaders closer together, with North Korea providing artillery shells and missiles to support Russia’s efforts in the conflict.
The alliance between Putin and Kim has raised alarms in Washington and its allies, particularly South Korea, as it threatens to undermine efforts to curb North Korea’s nuclear and missile programs. The partnership also poses a threat to global nonproliferation efforts, as Moscow has shifted away from imposing sanctions on countries like North Korea and Iran over their nuclear programs.
Analysts are closely watching to see what kind of military and economic support Kim may receive from Putin, with concerns that this partnership could lead to the modernization of North Korea’s weapons systems. Despite North Korea’s reputation for outdated weaponry, Russia’s need for conventional weapons in its war in Ukraine has made the relationship with Kim’s regime crucial.
The meeting between Putin and Kim underscores the shifting dynamics in global politics, with the two leaders aligning against the United States and its allies. As the world watches the outcome of this visit, the implications for regional and global security remain uncertain.
