Russian President Vladimir Putin arrived in Pyongyang for his first visit in twenty-four years, and North Korean leader Kim Jong Un welcomed him.
The state-run North Korean news agency, KCNA, reported that this visit reinforces bilateral ties and emphasises the country’s role in accelerating the shift towards a multipolar world order.
The agency described the leaders’ meeting as a historic milestone that underscores the “invincible and enduring” nature of the friendship and alliance between North Korea and Russia. The partnership is portrayed as a strategic stronghold that promotes international justice, peace, and security and furthers the development of a new multipolar world.
Russian state media, RIA Novosti, highlighted Putin’s remarks on Russia’s longstanding resistance to the “domineering and imperialistic policies” of the U.S. and its allies, praising North Korea’s support of Russian policies, including actions in Ukraine. The meeting comes at a time when the alliance between North Korea and Russia appears to be deepening, amidst speculations of North Korea possibly providing military support to Russia in exchange for technology—claims both countries deny.
According to the Russian news agency Interfax, Putin emphasized that Russia’s cooperation with North Korea is based on principles of equality and mutual respect. He reaffirmed Russia’s support for North Korea against what he termed “US pressure, blackmail, and military threats” and extended an invitation to Kim Jong Un to visit Russia.
Putin announced the creation of a “new fundamental document” to solidify the framework for long-term relations between the two nations, noting that this was a continuation of progress made during Kim’s visit to Russia the previous year. He promised to disclose more details about this document soon.
In his response, Kim Jong Un expressed gratitude towards Putin and remarked that their bilateral relations are entering a “new era of prosperity.” He lauded Russia’s role in maintaining global strategic balance and voiced his support for Russia’s military operations in Ukraine.
