putin-and-kim-forge-breakthrough-partnership

Russian President Vladimir Putin and North Korean leader Kim Jong-un have announced a significant elevation in their countries' relationship, highlighting a new “breakthrough” strategic partnership. This development was marked during Putin's rare visit to North Korea, his first in 24 years.

 

The visit was celebrated with thousands of North Koreans chanting “welcome Putin,” waving Russian and North Korean flags, and presenting bouquets of flowers.

 

The leaders signed a comprehensive partnership agreement that surpasses previous accords from 1961, 2000, and 2001. Putin emphasised that this new agreement includes provisions for mutual assistance in case of aggression against either country. The agreement spans various areas, including political, trade, investment, cultural, and security spheres. Putin described it as a “truly breakthrough document.”

 

During the visit, Putin criticised joint military exercises involving the United States, South Korea, and Japan, labelling them as “hostile” towards North Korea. He characterised US policy as “confrontational.” In response, Kim Jong-un praised the new “alliance” as a significant milestone in bilateral relations.

 

The welcome ceremony in Kim Il Sung Square was marked by exuberant celebrations. Mounted soldiers, military personnel, and children with balloons cheered against a backdrop of large portraits of Putin and Kim.

 

They exchanged greetings and stood together as the Russian national anthem played. The two leaders later rode in an open-top limousine, smiling and waving to the crowds.

 

During their meeting, Putin presented Kim with an Aurus car and a tea set, while the details of Putin’s gifts from Kim were not disclosed but described as “also good gifts” by his aide Yuri Ushakov.

 

Putin’s visit comes 24 years after his last trip to Pyongyang, signifying a deepening alignment between Russia and North Korea amid mutual animosity towards the West.

 

This growing relationship has raised international concerns, particularly in Seoul and Washington, over potential North Korean arms transfers to Russia and the possibility of Moscow supporting Pyongyang’s heavily sanctioned weapons program with advanced military technology.

 

Accusations from multiple governments suggest that North Korea has provided arms to Russia for its ongoing conflict in Ukraine. Both countries have denied these allegations despite substantial evidence. Kim Jong-un expressed full support for Russia’s efforts, particularly in Ukraine, to protect its sovereignty, safety, and territorial integrity.

 

Putin emphasised the relationship’s foundation on equality and mutual respect, highlighting the new bilateral agreement as a cornerstone for future relations. He expressed hope for Kim’s visit to Moscow for their next meeting.

 

The burgeoning relationship between Russia and North Korea has caused concern over potential implications, including North Korea's arms transfers to Russia and the possible exchange of advanced military technology. Kim Jong-un’s welcoming of Putin at the airport marked a significant diplomatic boost for North Korea amid heavy sanctions on its missile and nuclear programs.

 

Tensions on the Korean Peninsula remain high, exacerbated by Kim’s recent aggressive rhetoric and abandonment of a policy seeking peaceful reunification with South Korea. This is in reaction to increased coordination among the US, South Korea, and Japan.

 

North Korean state media portrayed a close rapport between Kim and Putin, highlighting exchanges of thoughts and a commitment to strengthening relations. Putin’s visit follows Kim’s significant visit to Russia last year, seen as initiating a new chapter based on Russian arms needs amid the offensive in Ukraine.

 

Reports indicate Russia has received over 10,000 containers from North Korea since September, equating to 260,000 metric tons of munitions or related material. Russian forces have reportedly launched at least 10 North Korean-made missiles on Ukraine.

 

Putin thanked North Korea for its consistent support against US hegemony and imperialism, highlighting their shared opposition to a US-led global order. He linked the meeting to historic ties, recalling contributions to bilateral relations by past generations, notably his 2000 meeting with Kim Jong Il, Kim Jong-un’s father.

 

Despite historical ties, the relationship between Russia and North Korea shifted after the Soviet Union’s collapse, with Russia establishing diplomatic relations with Seoul and supporting UN sanctions on North Korea’s weapons program.

 

However, recent diplomacy reflects shared frustrations with the West, deepening ties accelerated by the Ukraine conflict, granting North Korea a powerful ally in the UN Security Council.

 

In March, Moscow vetoed a UN resolution renewing independent monitoring of North Korea’s sanctions violations, raising concerns over their relationship and weakened controls on North Korea’s illicit weapons program. The new agreement supersedes previous treaties, affirming a growing alliance amid international scrutiny and regional tensions.