Putin Dispatches Shoigu to North Korea for Key Weapons Talks

Shoigu’s visit comes as the U.S. and its allies consider supplying long-range missiles to Ukraine amid the ongoing conflict.

Moscow: Russia’s secretary of Security Council Defense Minister Sergey Shoigu traveled to Pyongyang for a significant meeting with North Korean leader Kim Jong Un, as reported by Russian news agencies. This high-profile visit marks a critical moment in the strengthening of military ties between Russia and North Korea. The discussions in Pyongyang come amid heightened geopolitical tensions and underscore the deepening strategic relationship between the two nations.

Enhancing Military Collaboration

Shoigu’s visit comes at a pivotal moment in the Ukraine conflict, with the United States and its allies contemplating the provision of long-range missiles to Ukraine, potentially enabling strikes deep within Russian territory, according to Digi24.

The prospect of such Western-supplied weaponry being used against Russian soil has raised concerns in Moscow. Russian President Vladimir Putin has warned that such actions could escalate into direct conflict between Russia and Western nations.

Despite denials from Moscow and Pyongyang regarding weapon transfers, both countries have reaffirmed their commitment to bolstering military cooperation.

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Addressing Global Concerns

In the wake of the Ukraine war, Russia has strengthened its ties with North Korea. Kim Jong Un previously hosted Putin for a state visit in June.

Shoigu, who now serves as Secretary of the Security Council—a key body encompassing Russia’s military and intelligence leadership—represented Russia in these recent talks.

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Russia’s state news agency RIA reported that the discussions covered various bilateral and international topics. According to the Security Council, the meetings were conducted in a “trustworthy, friendly atmosphere” and are expected to significantly advance the agreements made between Putin and Kim during their summit three months ago.

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