FALCON POWERS – In a context marked by escalating tensions with Western countries and the ongoing war in Ukraine, Russian President Vladimir Putin is heading to North Korea on Tuesday, his first visit there in 24 years. This rare move comes amid Moscow’s growing international isolation, pushing it to seek new allies. In turn, the West views this rapprochement with caution, accusing Pyongyang of relying on its massive stockpile of ammunition to supply Russia with large quantities to continue its offensive in Ukraine.
In an exceptional visit, Russian President Vladimir Putin will travel to North Korea on Tuesday and Wednesday, where a strategic partnership agreement between these two countries, which the West sees as posing a threat, may be signed.
The two countries, both under extensive international sanctions, have significantly strengthened their relationship since Russia’s invasion of Ukraine in February 2022. Putin’s upcoming visit to North Korea comes nine months after he hosted the North Korean leader in Russia’s Far East. During that visit, the two men exchanged praise, but did not officially announce any agreement.
According to Western countries, Pyongyang has drawn on its huge stockpile of ammunition to supply Russia with large quantities. Last week, the Pentagon accused Moscow of using North Korean ballistic missiles in Ukraine.
In turn, Washington and Seoul say Russia has provided the expertise needed for North Korea’s satellite program and sent aid to address the country’s food shortages.
In March, Russia used its veto in the UN Security Council to prevent the monitoring of violations of international sanctions imposed on North Korea.
“During the Cold War, North Korea was always in a position to request military and economic assistance from Russia,” said Cheong Seong-chang of the Sejong Institute in Seoul, as quoted by the French news agency.
But today, the two countries “are cooperating on an equal footing” for the first time, the expert said, adding that it’s a kind of “honeymoon” of sorts.
