Russia’s Security Council Secretary Visits North Korea: A Strengthening Bond with Kim Jong-un
Sergei Shoigu, Russia’s Security Council Secretary, is visiting North Korea for discussions with Kim Jong-un, marking his second visit in six months. This follows recent diplomatic efforts and North Korea’s military support to Russia in Ukraine, including troop deployments and drone technology collaboration.
Sergei Shoigu, the Secretary of Russia’s Security Council, has arrived in North Korea to meet with Kim Jong-un, as reported by South Korea’s Yonhap news agency. This marks his second visit to the country within six months; he previously met Kim in September 2024. Shoigu’s current visit involves discussions with North Korean officials, focusing on strengthening political ties between the two nations.
The recent diplomacy follows another visit earlier this month by Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Andrey Rudenko, who met with North Korean Foreign Minister Choe Son-hui. Their discussions reportedly revolved around establishing high-level political contacts amid indications that North Korea is supplying military support to Russia in the ongoing conflict in Ukraine.
In 2022, North Korea reportedly sent approximately 12,000 troops to Russia to assist in the war against Ukraine, particularly engaged in combat in the Kursk region. Although these forces initially faced significant losses and were withdrawn, they were later redeployed by Russian command for further operations. South Korean intelligence has noted ongoing troop support provided by North Korea to Russia during this conflict.
Additionally, North Korea is purportedly receiving technical assistance from Russia for the development of various drone technologies, as stated by Asian media sources. This collaboration indicates a deepening military partnership between the two nations, amidst the ongoing geopolitical tensions surrounding Ukraine.
In summary, Sergei Shoigu’s visit to North Korea signifies a continued effort by Russia to strengthen its ties with Kim Jong-un amid the backdrop of military collaboration. The ongoing exchanges between Russian and North Korean officials highlight a mutual interest in supporting each other during the conflict in Ukraine, underscored by North Korea’s contribution of troops and development assistance in military technology.
Original Source: newsukraine.rbc.ua
