Russia and North Korea Strengthen Ties as Putin's Visit Raises Concerns Over Potential Arms Deal

Russian President Vladimir Putin expressed gratitude towards North Korea for its support of Russia's military actions in Ukraine in an op-ed published in North Korean state media. As he traveled to Pyongyang for a summit with Kim Jong Un, he stated that Russia and North Korea would collaborate closely to counter U.S.-led sanctions. This visit, his first to North Korea in 24 years, coincides with celebrations in Pyongyang. Putin's visit raises concerns about an arms deal where North Korea supplies munitions for Russia's Ukraine conflict in exchange for economic aid and technology that could boost its nuclear and missile capabilities.