SEOUL. Russian President Vladimir Putin received a grand reception in Pyongyang on Wednesday, marked by cheering crowds and ceremonial gestures, as North Korean leader Kim Jong Un voiced staunch support for Russia’s actions in Ukraine and pledged deeper strategic ties between their nations.
In a spectacle broadcast by Russian media, an honor guard including mounted soldiers and a throng of civilians filled Kim Il Sung square alongside the Taedong River. The scene featured children holding balloons and oversized portraits of both leaders, framed by national flags on the square’s main building.
Following this display, Kim and Putin proceeded to summit talks at the Kumsusan Palace, where Putin acknowledged North Korea’s steadfast support for Russia’s policies, particularly in the Ukrainian context. Russian state news agency RIA quoted Putin stating, “We highly appreciate your consistent and unwavering support for Russian policy, including in the Ukrainian direction.”
Putin, emphasizing Moscow’s stance, reportedly mentioned, “Moscow is fighting the hegemonic, imperialist policy of the United States and its allies.”
In response, Kim emphasized the strengthening of North Korea-Russia relations, describing it as entering a phase of “new high prosperity.” He expressed full solidarity with Russia’s military operation in Ukraine, stating, “North Korea expresses full support and solidarity to the Russian government, army and people in carrying out a special military operation in Ukraine to protect sovereignty, security interests, as well as territorial integrity.”
Putin’s visit, his first to Pyongyang in 24 years, is poised to reshape decades of Russia-North Korea relations, coinciding with a period of international isolation for both countries.
North Korea’s state news agency KCNA underscored the significance of the visit, proclaiming, “The countries’ partnership is an engine for accelerating the building of a new multi-polar world.”
Amid Western sanctions on both nations, Russia has leveraged its relationship with North Korea strategically, while Pyongyang has sought political backing and economic assurances from Moscow. Despite concerns from the United States and its allies regarding potential military collaboration, both Russia and North Korea have denied such allegations.
Putin’s arrival was marked by a warm embrace from Kim at Pyongyang’s airport, followed by a private conversation en route to the state guest house, according to North Korean state media.
Today’s agenda includes a gala concert, state reception, and official statements to the media, signaling a reinforcement of bilateral ties and potential economic initiatives.
Ahead of his visit, Putin signaled a reevaluation of Russia’s approach to North Korea, praising Pyongyang for resisting what he termed as U.S. economic pressure and threats. He outlined plans for “developing alternative trade and mutual settlement mechanisms not controlled by the West.”
Analysts suggest Putin’s overtures could position Russia as a key economic ally for North Korea, potentially reducing Pyongyang’s incentives to engage with the United States. Rachel Minyoung Lee of the 38 North program in Washington commented, “If Pyongyang views Russia as a viable longer-term partner for improving its economy…there is even less of an incentive for it to try to improve relations with the United States.”
Putin also announced plans to sign a “comprehensive strategic partnership treaty” with North Korea, emphasizing security cooperation while assuring it would not target any other country.
As the visit progresses, global attention remains focused on the implications for regional stability and international diplomacy, amidst ongoing tensions in Ukraine and beyond.
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