During his rare visit outside of North Korea, North Korean leader Kim Jong Un met with Russian Defense Minister Sergei Shoigu in Vladivostok. They inspected state-of-the-art weapons, including a hypersonic missile system. The visit, which began on Tuesday, focused extensively on military matters. Kim also visited a fighter jet factory and engaged in a symbolic exchange of rifles with President Vladimir Putin.
Russia and North Korea, both under global sanctions, have a historic alliance. Moscow is rumored to be interested in buying North Korean ammunition for the conflict in Ukraine, while Pyongyang seeks Russia’s assistance in developing its missile program. However, the Kremlin has stated that no agreement has been or will be signed.
In a meeting at the Vostochny cosmodrome, Putin expressed the possibility of greater cooperation with North Korea and potential military ties. During his visit to Vladivostok, Kim was shown Russia’s strategic nuclear forces, including Tu-160, Tu-95MS, and Tu-22M3 bombers. He also inspected fighter jets and a hypersonic Kinzhal missile system.
Kim and Shoigu then boarded the anti-submarine destroyer, Marshal Shaposhnikov, where Admiral Nikolai Yevmenov briefed them on the warship’s characteristics and its weaponry, which includes Kalibr cruise missiles. Later, Kim enjoyed a performance of the classical ballet, The Sleeping Beauty, with Russian officials.
