Putin’s recent visit to North Korea is seen as a strong diplomatic message against Western countries. The closer relationship between Russia and North Korea worries the West and its Asian allies, who fear that Moscow might share nuclear knowledge with Pyongyang.
Putin’s first visit to North Korea happened in 2000 when he became president, almost 24 years ago. This long gap before his return raises questions: Was it about the hospitality, or did he have better options elsewhere?
In any case, Russia's recent visit highlights its isolation from the West and its growing friendship with North Korea, which are both considered outcast states by many.
North Korea provides more than just friendship to Russia. According to the US and others, it supplies Russia with weapons and ammunition that could be used in conflicts like the one in Ukraine.
South Korea’s defense minister mentioned in an interview with Bloomberg that North Korea sent nearly five million artillery shells to Russia since September, along with dozens of ballistic missiles. Moscow and Pyongyang deny these claims, but UN experts say they have proof. For example, in January, they found parts of a missile fired from Russia that resembled a North Korean model.
Ukraine claims there are more incidents like this.
For North Korea, having closer ties with Russia is a big advantage. Besides food and fuel, analysts believe Russia gives the economically struggling nation much-needed aid and diplomatic support.
In March, Russia used its veto power to stop a UN resolution that would have renewed a team of experts tasked with monitoring sanctions enforcement.
It’s also believed that Russia might be helping North Korea with technical knowledge for its space and satellite programs. This assumption arose after President Putin showed Kim Jong Un around the Vostochny Cosmodrome in Russia’s Far East last September.
The stronger bond between Russia and North Korea worries Western countries and their Asian allies.
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Both Putin and Kim Jong Un frequently discuss their readiness to use nuclear weapons. In Washington and Seoul, there is significant concern that Russia might share its nuclear expertise and missile technology with North Korea, adding to the aid they already receive.
Putin's delegation for the visit is notable. It includes his new defense minister, Andrei Belousov, and Denis Manturov, the deputy prime minister responsible for defense.
The Kremlin officially states that the visit aims to sign a security agreement not targeting any specific country. Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov emphasized Russia's right to build strong ties with its neighbors without causing worry.
However, behind the scenes, Russia likely enjoys the unease caused by this visit. It's a clear diplomatic message to Western countries, possibly bringing significant geopolitical advantages.
For instance, if South Korea considers providing weapons to Ukraine, this visit might make them reconsider.
