Why The World Is Watching The Putin-Kim Alliance

The upcoming meeting of North Korean leader Kim Jong Un with Russian President Vladimir Putin is raising a lot of eyebrows across the globe. The duo is expected to meet later this week in Vladivostok, Russia. Kim's Russia visit marks his first overseas excursion in the past four years.

It is believed that Moscow may be interested in obtaining artillery shells and antitank missiles from North Korea, while Pyongyang seeks advanced satellite and nuclear-powered submarine technology in exchange. During their talks, the two leaders will be discussing "sensitive subjects."

North Korea is believed to possess tens of millions of artillery shells and rockets, many of which are based on Soviet designs. These could potentially provide a substantial boost to the Russian army.

Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov was quoted as saying by a news agency that "our countries collaborate on sensitive matters that should not be publicly disclosed or announced and such collaboration is entirely routine for neighboring states."

Peskov told reporters that the leaders would ignore US "warnings" regarding the discussions. Washington had stated that North Korea could face consequences if it provides Moscow with weaponry for the Ukraine conflict.

American officials, last week, released intelligence indicating that North Korea and Russia were coordinating a summit between their leaders, strengthening their collaboration in response to escalating conflicts with the United States.

Kim's Russia visit

Kim Jong Un, accompanied by key military officials responsible for nuclear-capable weapons and munitions production, arrived in Russia on Tuesday. This has raised Western apprehensions regarding a potential arms agreement for Moscow's war in Ukraine. Kim boarded his private train from the capital, Pyongyang, on Sunday afternoon. He was accompanied by undisclosed individuals from the nation's ruling party, government, and military.

Kim's delegation probably consists of his Foreign Minister, Choe Sun Hui, as well as senior military figures like Korean People's Army Marshals Ri Pyong Chol and Pak Jong Chon.