Russian President Vladimir Putin arrived in North Korea on Wednesday on a trip that Pyongyang’s state media described as part of the two countries’ efforts to “build an independent multipolar world,” as the heavily sanctioned states continue to bolster their growing economic and security ties.Putin’s arrival in Pyongyang was announced by the Kremlin.
- Russian President Vladimir Putin will officially be welcomed to North Korea today, after arriving in Pyongyang in the middle of the night
- North Korean leader Kim Jong Un was on the tarmac to welcome Putin when he touched down just before 03:00 local time
- The pair reportedly have a nine-hour long schedule on Wednesday, including a photo op, 90 minutes of talks and a tea party
- The two leaders last met in September in far eastern Russia but this is Putin’s first visit to Pyongyang since 2000
- The US and Seoul have accused North Korea of supplying Russia with artillery and other equipment, likely in exchange for food and military aid
- Both countries deny the existence of an arms deal but vowed last year to strengthen military ties
- Since Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine, Putin has become a pariah to the West and has been seeking allies elsewhere
- After North Korea, Putin will visit Vietnam, a long-time ally – both countries are expected to discuss issues such as trade
