North Korean leader Kim Jong Un is on an extended visit to Russia, during which he is inspecting technological advances in the Russian military industry. The visit raises concerns about possible transfers of banned weapons between the two countries, which could have a significant impact on the situation in Ukraine.

North Korean leader Kim Jong Un undertook an extended visit to Russia, highlighting the increasingly close ties between the two nations, both of which face tensions with the West. During the visit, Kim met with President Vladimir Putin, inspected technology and weapons sites, raising concerns about the possibility of prohibited arms transactions between the two countries. This article explores the details of Kim’s visit to Russia, as well as its potential implications on the international stage.

An Arms-Focused Visit

Since arriving in Russia aboard his armored train, Kim Jong Un has met with President Vladimir Putin and visited technological and military sites. The visit suggests growing cooperation between North Korea and Russia, two countries isolated on the international stage. Foreign observers and experts speculate that Kim may be supplying Russia with ammunition for its war efforts in Ukraine in exchange for advanced military technology or weapons.

During his visit, Kim inspected the cockpit of the Su-57, Russia’s most sophisticated fighter jet, as well as the Su-35, after a demonstration flight. He also visited a facility producing Sukhoi SJ-100 passenger aircraft. This visit highlights the potential for cooperation in aeronautics and other industries, which is of particular importance to both countries in their quest for technological sovereignty.

Implications for Ukraine

Kim’s visit to Russia is accompanied by speculation that North Korea may supply Russia with conventional weapons to bolster its depleted military inventory in the context of the war in Ukraine. In return, Kim could seek Russia’s assistance in modernizing its air and sea forces, which are inferior to South Korea’s. The visit comes at a time when Kim has devoted much of his resources to North Korea’s nuclear program.

Although speculation has circulated about the possibility of North Korea sending troops to fight alongside Russian soldiers in Ukraine, President Putin has categorically rejected the idea. However, experts believe that North Korea and Russia will not make public the details of their arms deals to avoid harsher international condemnation.

International reactions

Kim’s visit to Russia has aroused international concern, particularly among the USA, South Korea and Japan. The national security advisors of these countries expressed “serious concerns” about possible arms deals between Russia and North Korea. They warned that Moscow and Pyongyang “will pay a high price” if they enter into such agreements.

In response to these concerns, the United States and South Korea reinforced their condemnation of recent moves by Russia and North Korea. US officials reiterated their commitment to identifying, exposing and countering Russian attempts to acquire military hardware to support their illegal war in Ukraine.

Kim Jong Un’s visit to Russia raises important questions about possible prohibited arms transactions between the two countries and their impact on the situation in Ukraine. As Russia struggles to replenish its depleted military reserves, North Korea could play a key role by supplying conventional weapons in exchange for advanced military technology. This situation is being closely monitored by the international community, particularly the USA, South Korea and Japan, who have warned that such transactions will not go unpunished. Kim’s visit to Russia will continue to raise questions and concerns about its implications for regional and international stability.

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