Kim and Putin Meet in Pyongyang Amid Concerns Over Military Ties

On June 19, 2024, Russian President Vladimir Putin arrived in Pyongyang to meet with North Korean leader Kim Jong Un. The meeting aims to expand economic and military cooperation between Russia and North Korea amidst growing tensions with the United States.

Putin was welcomed at the airport by Kim, amid a motorcade that traversed Pyongyang’s streets, adorned with Russian flags and portraits of Putin. Their discussions began following a welcoming ceremony attended by high-ranking officials from both nations.

North Korean state media lauded the meeting as a historic event demonstrating the “invincibility and durability” of their bilateral ties. Putin highlighted the countries’ intention to cooperate against U.S.-led sanctions and expressed gratitude for North Korea’s support of Russia’s military actions in Ukraine, which began with an invasion in 2022.

Concerns have been raised about an arms arrangement where North Korea supplies Russia with munitions for its war in Ukraine in exchange for economic support and technology transfers, potentially advancing North Korea’s nuclear programs. Both nations deny these allegations.

Accompanying Putin were various top Russian officials, including Deputy Prime Minister Denis Mantrurov, Defense Minister Andrei Belousov, and Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov. The anticipated discussions include the signing of documents related to a comprehensive strategic partnership.

Tensions have escalated on the Korean Peninsula, with increased weapons tests by North Korea and intensified military exercises involving the U.S., South Korea, and Japan. The Pyongyang summit symbolizes a significant geopolitical shift, potentially reshaping global alliances and exacerbating security concerns.