00:00 In an unexpected move, Russian President Vladimir Putin has gifted North Korean leader Kim Jong-un
00:09 a luxury Russian-made car.
00:11 According to Pyongyang state media, the prestigious vehicle, an Aurus, was delivered to Kim's
00:18 top aides this past Sunday.
00:21 Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov later confirmed the gift, highlighting that the Aurus is a
00:26 full-sized luxury sedan of the same model used by President Putin himself.
00:32 This exchange further deepens the close ties between the two countries, which have strengthened
00:36 notably since Russia's invasion of Ukraine back in February of 2022.
00:42 Despite facing international sanctions, North Korea is believed to be providing Russia with
00:47 artillery, rockets and ballistic missiles for the ongoing conflict in Ukraine.
00:52 Both nations deny any violation of sanctions and their collaboration has raised eyebrows
00:58 on the global stage.
00:59 The diplomatic relations between Putin and Kim have been building over the years.
01:04 Last September, President Vladimir Putin welcomed Kim Jong-un to the Vostokny Cosmodrome in
01:10 the Russian Far East, marking Kim's first foreign trip in four years.
01:14 During that visit, the North Korean leader inspected Putin's own Aurus Senet limousine
01:19 and the leaders exchanged gifts, including swapping guns.
01:22 Kim Jong-un, known for his interests in automobiles, is said to have a collection of luxury foreign
01:28 vehicles.
01:29 Kim's sister, Yo Jong, described the recent car gift as a clear demonstration of the special
01:34 personal relations between the top leaders of Russia and North Korea, according to North
01:39 Korean state news agency KCNA.
01:41 However, not everyone is celebrating this diplomatic gesture.
01:45 South Korea's foreign ministry has raised concerns, stating that the luxury car gift
01:50 violates UN Security Council sanctions against North Korea, which prohibit the supply of
01:55 certain categories of vehicles, including luxury cars.
01:59 Both Russia and North Korea have hinted at a reciprocal visit, with indications that
02:04 President Putin will soon travel to Pyongyang.
02:07 The unfolding events continue to draw attention to the complex geopolitical dynamics in the
02:12 region.
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