Sergei Shoigu, Russia’s Security Council Secretary, visited North Korea to meet Kim Jong-un, marking his second trip in six months. This follows an earlier visit by Deputy Foreign Minister Rudenko. The meetings reflect North Korea’s military support to Russia against Ukraine, where North Korean troops have been deployed. Additionally, North Korea is receiving technological assistance from Moscow for drone development.
Sergei Shoigu, the Secretary of Russia’s Security Council, arrived in North Korea on March 21, marking his second visit in six months to meet with leader Kim Jong-un. Reports from the South Korean news agency, Yonhap, indicate that Shoigu is set to engage in discussions with Kim and other North Korean officials regarding bilateral relations and cooperation.
Earlier this month, Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Andrey Rudenko also visited North Korea, conducting meetings with Foreign Minister Choe Son-hui. Their discussions reportedly revolved around establishing higher-level political contacts. These interactions occur in the context of North Korea providing military assistance to Russia amidst the ongoing war in Ukraine.
During Shoigu’s first visit to Pyongyang in September 2024, he also met with Kim Jong-un. In recent developments, North Korea has reportedly deployed approximately 12,000 soldiers to Russia, engaging in combat in the Kursk region. This assistance reportedly has faced challenges, leading to a temporary withdrawal before reintegration into Russian military operations.
Additionally, South Korean intelligence has indicated that North Korea continues to send troops to aid Russia. Asian media sources have further highlighted that North Korea is receiving technological support from Moscow to enhance its drone capabilities, signaling a deepening military collaboration between the two nations.
In conclusion, the recent visits by high-ranking Russian officials to North Korea underscore the growing military cooperation between the two countries. As North Korea sends troops to support Russia in the war against Ukraine, the establishment of political ties appears to be a strategic emphasis for both nations. Overall, these developments reflect a significant adjustment in geopolitical alliances in the region.
Original Source: newsukraine.rbc.ua
