Russia, North Korea Deepen Ties Amid Arms Deal Concerns

Russian President Vladimir Putin and Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov hosted North Koreas Foreign Minister Choe Son Hui for talks on expanding ties, amidst international concerns over an alleged arms cooperation deal between Pyongyang and Moscow.

Russian President Vladimir Putin and Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov hosted North Korea's Foreign Minister Choe Son Hui in Moscow on Tuesday for talks on expanding ties between the two countries. The meeting comes amid international concerns over an alleged arms cooperation deal between Pyongyang and Moscow.

Lavrov Meets with Choe

Earlier in the day, Lavrov met with Choe and stated that they would discuss "active work" on implementing agreements reached by the countries' leaders. North Korean leader Kim Jong Un visited Russia in September to meet Putin and tour military sites, raising concerns about a potential arms alliance that could help Moscow replenish its arsenals during the ongoing conflict in Ukraine.

Putin Meets with Choe and Lavrov

Later in the day, Putin met with Choe and Lavrov, according to Russian presidential spokesman Dmitry Peskov. Peskov reported that the foreign ministers informed Putin about the agreements they had reached, but did not provide specific details.

Putin to Visit North Korea

Peskov also announced that Putin will visit North Korea at Kim's invitation "at a convenient time and based on mutual agreement."

Lavrov Praises North Korea's Support

Lavrov expressed Moscow's appreciation for Pyongyang's support for Russia's military actions in Ukraine. He highlighted the "close and fruitful cooperation" between the two countries at the United Nations and other international organizations.

Choe Affirms Commitment to Developing Relations

Choe reciprocated Lavrov's sentiments, stating, "We will take every effort to develop our relations."

Accusations of North Korean Arms Transfers

The United States and South Korea have accused North Korea of supplying artillery munitions and missiles to Russia for use in Ukraine. Earlier this month, US National Security Council spokesman John Kirby claimed that Russia had already utilized ballistic missiles provided by North Korea to strike Ukraine.

Russia and North Korea Deny Allegations

Both Russia and North Korea have dismissed the accusations of North Korean arms transfers to Russia.