North Korean leader Kim Jong Un met with top Russian security official Sergei Shoigu on Saturday, where they discussed deepening strategic dialogue between the two countries. According to state media KCNA, they had a wide exchange of views on regional and international situations, and reached a satisfactory consensus on issues including cooperation to defend mutual safety interests. Kim emphasized that North Korea will continue to expand cooperation with Russia in accordance with the strategic partnership between the two countries.
The meeting between Kim and Shoigu comes amid accusations from the United States, Ukraine, and independent analysts that North Korea is supplying rockets and missiles to Russia in exchange for economic and military assistance. However, both Moscow and Pyongyang have denied these allegations. Despite this, the two countries have pledged to boost military cooperation and signed a comprehensive strategic partnership at a summit in June.
Shoigu’s visit to Pyongyang marks the beginning of closer ties between North Korea and Russia. In July last year, Shoigu, then Russia’s defense minister, became the first top Russian defense official to visit North Korea since the 1991 break-up of the Soviet Union. During his visit, he stood alongside Kim while viewing North Korea’s military parade, which showcased nuclear-capable missiles and attack drones.
The meeting between Kim and Shoigu highlights the strengthening relationship between North Korea and Russia, with both countries seeking to expand their cooperation in various areas. As the international community continues to monitor the situation, the implications of this deepening partnership remain to be seen.
