World
Kim Jong Un in Russia for Crucial Talks Amid Ukraine Crisis, Arms Deal Likely on the Table
North Korean leader Kim Jong Un arrives in Russia for high-stakes talks with President Vladimir Putin. Amid the Ukraine crisis, the two leaders are expected to discuss a potential arms deal, signifying a pivotal moment in international geopolitics.
September 12, 2023 – As tensions flare up in Eastern Europe, North Korean leader Kim Jong Un has ventured into Russia for a meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin. South Korea’s Ministry of National Defense confirmed the arrival of Kim’s armored train in Russia early Tuesday morning, indicating the train is headed towards Vladivostok, the site of the Eastern Economic Forum.
Key Objectives
High-level discussions between Kim Jong Un and Putin are expected to include potential arms deals as Russia grapples with a counter-offensive from Ukraine. The Kremlin stated the meeting would occur in the “coming days,” although some reports suggest it could take place as early as Tuesday local time.
“Russia and North Korea have complementary needs at this juncture, making these talks exceptionally timely,” said Ankit Panda, a senior fellow at the Carnegie Endowment for International Peace, in a statement made earlier this week.
An Imposing Journey
Kim’s train, famous for its heavy armament, is said to consist of at least 20 bulletproof cars and can only travel at a speed of approximately 59 km/h (37 mph). Photos released by North Korea’s state media, KCNA, showed Kim waving as he departed from Pyongyang.
Historical Context
This meeting marks Kim Jong Un’s first international trip since 2019 when he met with Putin in Vladivostok following the breakdown of nuclear disarmament talks with then U.S. President Donald Trump. As reported by KCNA, Kim is accompanied by senior government and military officials, a sign pointing towards the gravity of the discussions to follow.
US Intelligence
According to the White House, ongoing arms negotiations between Russia and North Korea are “actively advancing.” National Security Council spokesman John Kirby revealed that Russia’s Defence Minister, Sergei Shoigu, had engaged in discussions with North Korea to “convince Pyongyang to sell artillery ammunition.”
“Both nations could see benefits from such a deal. Russia is interested in replenishing its stock of conventional weaponry, while North Korea could benefit from food and raw materials, as well as diplomatic backing in forums like the UN,” added Panda.
Geopolitical Implications
Experts believe that the potential arms deal might involve North Korea providing Russia with artillery shells and rocket artillery munitions. In return, North Korea could expect food and raw material supplies from Russia, along with continuous support in international arenas such as the United Nations.
“Such a deal could enable Russia to maintain and even expand its existing stocks of conventional weaponry,” said Ankit Panda, emphasizing the strategic importance for both countries.
As the meeting looms, the international community remains vigilant, closely watching this unexpected alliance amid the ongoing Ukrainian conflict and its potential global implications.
Sources:
BBC News, September 12, 2023; KCNA; Carnegie Endowment for International Peace; Statements from White House National Security Council spokesman John Kirby.
Disclaimer: All information in this article has been verified for accuracy as of September 12, 2023.
