MOSCOW: The Kremlin confirmed on Monday that North Korean leader Kim Jong Un is set to make an official visit to Russia in the near future, following an invitation extended by Russian President Vladimir Putin.
This development comes as speculation has grown about Kim’s international travels, given his rarity in venturing outside North Korea and his absence from the global stage since the outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic.
“At the invitation of Russian leader Vladimir Putin, North Korean President Kim Jong Un will pay an official visit to Russia in the coming days,” the Kremlin stated in an official statement.
South Korea’s Yonhap news agency earlier reported that Kim’s train had seemingly departed for Russia, citing an unidentified official source, although the exact date and location of the meeting have yet to be disclosed.
Relations Between North Korea and Russia
Russia and North Korea share a historical alliance that dates back to the founding of North Korea 75 years ago. This relationship has been of strategic importance to both nations, with Russia providing support to the isolated regime for decades.
In July of this year, President Putin publicly acknowledged Pyongyang’s “firm support” for what Russia referred to as its “special military operation” in Ukraine. This statement underscored the deep-rooted diplomatic ties between the two nations and hinted at possible discussions on various matters during Kim’s visit, including potential arms deals.
The international community will closely watch this high-profile meeting, as it could have significant implications for regional stability and global geopolitics. Kim Jong Un’s visit to Russia marks a rare diplomatic move for the North Korean leader.
