Russian President Vladimir Putin is set to visit North Korea for talks with leader Kim Jong Un on Tuesday or Wednesday, marking the first such trip since 2000. The visit comes amid growing military cooperation between the two pariah states and Russia's ongoing invasion of Ukraine.
Putin's trip will reciprocate Kim's visit to Russia's Far East in September last year, where they pledged public support for each other and discussed potential economic cooperation. According to reports, Moscow is seeking munitions for its war against Ukraine from North Korea, which has a large stockpile of dated artillery shells and rockets compatible with Soviet and Russian weapons systems used in Ukraine.
Pyongyang, on the other hand, is seeking access to Moscow's advanced technology for its satellite and nuclear weapons programs. In November 2021, North Korea launched a 'space launch vehicle' into orbit after two failed attempts.
The visit will also highlight the longevity of autocratic leadership in both countries: Putin last visited North Korea 24 years ago, soon after he became president for the first time, when the country was led by Kim Jong Il. Kim has called his relations with Russia his top priority and pledged support for Moscow's 'sacred struggle' against Ukraine.
The White House has repeatedly accused North Korea of sending 'equipment and munitions' to Russia to replenish its supplies for the war in Ukraine, including ballistic missiles with a range of roughly 550 miles and missile launchers. North Korea is believed to have a production capacity that would help Russia maintain its high ammunition burn rate as it seeks to scale up domestic production.
Pyongyang is also grappling with financial hardship and food insecurity following pandemic isolation and years of sanctions. The visit could provide an opportunity for North Korea to boost its economy by securing Russian investment and technology.
The Kremlin has not yet confirmed the details of Putin's visit, but it is expected to further deepen the strategic partnership between Russia and North Korea at a time when both countries are facing international isolation.