Moscow: Analysts’ anticipation of President Vladimir Putin’s visit to North Korea has been confirmed by the Kremlin, ending months of speculation. The visit, expected on Tuesday, follows reports supported by satellite images showing preparations underway in North Korea. Last year, North Korean leader Kim Jong Un toured Russia’s Far East in his distinctive green bulletproof train and extended an invitation to Putin, which was later accepted. Journalists from Russia and abroad are eagerly awaiting updates, while the Kremlin promises details will be revealed in due course, keeping speculation high.
Why Does Putin’s Visit to North Korea Matter?
This would be Putin’s second visit to North Korea, the first occurring in 2000 during Kim Jong Il’s leadership. While the Russia-North Korea relationship isn’t as robust as during the Soviet era, it has evolved towards mutual benefits, raising concerns in the West. The Kremlin asserts that their ties have substantial potential, cautioning against challenges to their growing relationship.
Mutual Benefits and Strategic Interests
Speculation centers on the mutual benefits sought by both nations, particularly concerning security and supplies. Russia may seek ammunition, construction resources, and even volunteers for operations in Ukraine. In return, North Korea could receive Russian goods and technological support, including for its long-range missile program, aimed at the US. Recent reports suggest North Korea has shipped nearly five million artillery shells to Russia, reflecting the strategic advantage of their partnership amid international sanctions.
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Putin-Kim Dynamics Define Russia-North Korea Diplomacy
Russia’s support for North Korea, such as vetoing UN Security Council resolutions on sanctions, underscores a cautious yet amicable relationship between the two leaders. In February, Putin gifted Kim a luxury Russian limousine, despite UN sanctions. Kim has reciprocated by describing North Korea as Russia’s “invincible comrade-in-arms.”
Broader Implications
Putin’s visit to North Korea is a statement against Western sanctions and a testament to his ability to forge new international relations amidst global conflicts. It signals Russia’s pivot towards non-Western alliances, aligning with nations opposed to US global dominance. Efforts to strengthen ties with countries like Iran and Zimbabwe, also under significant sanctions, highlight this strategic realignment.
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Symbolism and Risks
Putin’s visit carries symbolic weight, particularly in Russia’s pivot to the East. While China may have reservations about Russia’s ties with North Korea, any concerns have likely been addressed in recent meetings between Putin and Xi Jinping. The visit symbolizes convergence in leadership styles between Russia and North Korea, despite their differences.
Perceptions in Russia and the West
At home, ordinary Russians may not fully embrace closer ties with North Korea, given their cultural and historical ties with Europe and the West. This poses risks for Putin, potentially triggering new measures from Western powers post-visit. Specific agreements reached during the visit are expected to remain undisclosed, aligning with the secrecy of Kim Jong Un’s visit to Russia last year. However, the optics will emphasize Putin’s autonomy and defiance on the global stage.
