North Korea Marks Historic Moment with First Road Bridge to Russia

North Korea has commenced construction of its first road bridge to Russia, marking a significant development in bilateral relations. Scheduled for completion by mid-2026, the bridge will enhance connectivity between the two countries. This announcement comes alongside North Korea’s confirmation of troop support for Russia in Ukraine, signaling deeper ties amid ongoing geopolitical challenges.

North Korea has proudly announced the commencement of construction for its first road bridge to Russia, calling this development a “significant” step in enhancing their bilateral relations. State media KCNA reported that the bridge will span the Tumen River in the northeast and aims for completion by mid-2026, according to Russia’s Kommersant newspaper.

This new bridge is strategically important, as it is located near the sole existing land connection between the two countries, which is the aging Soviet-era rail bridge known as the ‘Friendship Bridge.’ A noteworthy aspect of this announcement is the timing; it comes shortly after North Korea admitted to sending troops to support Russia in its ongoing war against Ukraine, suggesting a shift towards a more proactive military partnership.

The growing ties between North Korea and Russia are evident and have intensified since the onset of Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine last year. The plans for the bridge were set in motion during President Vladimir Putin’s visit to Pyongyang in 2022, where he and North Korean leaders reached an agreement on a “comprehensive strategic partnership,” a designation signifying the highest level of collaboration between them.

During the groundbreaking ceremony for the bridge, Russian Prime Minister Mikhail Mishustin emphasized its importance, noting that the bridge represents more than an engineering effort. He stated, “It symbolizes our common desire to strengthen friendly, good-neighbourly relations and increase inter-regional cooperation.”

Additionally, the construction of the bridge is occurring as reports emerged from South Korean lawmakers, indicating that over 600 North Korean soldiers have died in the conflict on behalf of Russia, as per their intelligence assessments. In exchange for military aid, it is suggested that Russia has been assisting North Korea with technical support related to spy satellites, drones, and anti-aircraft missiles.

Earlier reports from North Korea also claimed that their forces played a role in the “complete liberation” of Russia’s Kursk border region, an area that has seen ongoing tensions and military action since Ukraine’s unexpected incursion eight months prior. Ukraine continues to assert that some of its military personnel are still present within the contested Russian territory.

In summary, the construction of the first road bridge between North Korea and Russia marks a significant milestone in their relationship, highlighting deepening military and economic ties since the Ukraine conflict began. As both nations engage further in strategic partnerships, this bridge is set to symbolize their strengthened collaboration moving forward, amidst ongoing international tensions and sanctions.

Original Source: www.bbc.com