North Korea has announced that its leader, Kim Jong Un, has returned home after a six-day trip to Russia. The visit, which marked Kim’s longest foreign travel since coming to power in 2011, aimed to deepen “comradely fellowship and friendly ties” with Russian President Vladimir Putin. While specific details of the trip were not disclosed, Kim visited military sites in Russia and expressed full support for Putin.
However, the trip raised concerns about potential arms deals between North Korea and Russia. Speculation suggests North Korea could supply ammunition to Russia in exchange for Russian technologies to modernize its nuclear weapons arsenal. Such deals could violate U.N. Security Council resolutions, prompting warnings of consequences from U.S. and South Korean officials.
Kim’s train crossed a border river on Monday, but his exact destination within North Korea remains undisclosed. Before visiting Russia, Kim inspected munitions factories, sparking speculation about arms production. During his Russian journey, Kim visited key military sites and observed advanced weapons systems, including nuclear-capable bombers, fighter jets, and hypersonic missiles.
Experts believe Kim may seek Russian assistance in acquiring a spy satellite, a nuclear-propelled submarine, and long-range missiles. However, concerns persist that Russia may prioritize food and economic aid over sharing sensitive, high-tech weapons technologies.
Kim’s efforts to strengthen North Korea’s nuclear arsenal are seen as a response to perceived U.S. military threats. Analysts suggest that an expanded arsenal could be used to negotiate better terms with the U.S. while bolstering Kim’s military reputation at home, particularly amid economic challenges exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic.
