North Korea Sent Russia Millions of Artillery Shells: South Korea
TimeJun 12
Putin Makes First Visit to North Korea in 24 Years
Image copyright: Chung Sung-Jun/Staff/Getty Images News via Getty Images
The Facts
Russian Pres. Vladimir Putin is set to arrive in North Korea for a two-day state visit on Tuesday — his first trip to the country in 24 years.
The visit comes following a personal invitation from North Korea's Kim Jong-un in September, the last time the pair met in Russia's far east. The leaders, according to reports at the time, likely discussed North Korean weapons in exchange for Russian satellite technology.
The Spin
Anti-Russia narrative
Putin's trip to North Korea underscores the burgeoning relationship between Russia and a reclusive, nuclear-armed northeast Asian nation— a concern for Washington. It is also deeply disappointing that Vietnam is welcoming a proven war criminal and normalizing his war in Ukraine. Hanoi should eschew ties with Russia in favor of expanding its economic interests with the West.
Pro-Russia narrative
Putin's visit to North Korea and Vietnam signifies the long-standing ties between these countries as they seek to deepen their economic and diplomatic cooperation with Russia. Moscow is committed to fostering greater bonds with its allies, and his visit will strengthen ties while promoting peace and prosperity.