Russia and North Korea to Construct Tumen River Bridge, Enhancing Bilateral Ties
Russia is set to begin building a bridge to North Korea over the Tumen River, following an agreement reached during President Putin’s 2024 visit. Preparations are underway, with expectations of increased economic and military exchanges between the two nations, potentially diminishing international sanctions. North Korea is also sending additional troops and military supplies to assist Russia in its conflict with Ukraine.
Russia and North Korea are set to commence the construction of a bridge over the Tumen River, as confirmed by the Russian Ambassador to North Korea, Alexander Matsegora, on March 27. The agreement for this infrastructure development occurred during President Vladimir Putin’s visit to North Korea in 2024, coinciding with the signing of a comprehensive strategic partnership agreement.
This bridge will be located near an existing railway bridge established in 1959, post-Korean War. Historical records indicate that a wooden bridge facilitated border crossing in the early 20th century but was subsequently destroyed. Ambassador Matsegora stated that preparatory work is ongoing, including finalizing design documentation and organizing construction teams and machinery.
The bridge, which has been a topic of discussion for years, will span 850 meters and integrate with the Russian highway system. A recent report from the South Korean satellite image analysis firm, SI Analytics, indicated that construction on the bridge’s foundations and road connections appears to have commenced.
The rapid development of this bridge, which will run alongside the only existing rail link between North Korea and Russia, is expected to lead to increased economic, social, and military exchanges between the two nations. This infrastructure could potentially undermine international sanctions imposed on both North Korea and Russia.
In related developments, South Korea’s Joint Chiefs of Staff Committee reported an influx of approximately 3,000 additional North Korean troops into Russia in early 2024. This troop increase is intended to address losses sustained from engagements in Ukraine. Furthermore, North Korea is reportedly supplying Russia with missiles, artillery, and ammunition, including a considerable number of short-range ballistic missiles and self-propelled howitzers, amid rising military collaboration between the two nations.
The anticipated construction of a bridge between Russia and North Korea represents a significant development in bilateral relations and is poised to enhance communication and cooperation between the two countries. As preparations move forward, the potential economic and military implications could challenge existing international sanctions. The influx of North Korean troops and military equipment to Russia further underscores the burgeoning collaboration, marking a notable shift in the geopolitical landscape.
Original Source: bnn-news.com
