NORTH KOREA – In a significant geopolitical development, North Korean leader Kim Jong Un is reportedly preparing to embark on a rare overseas trip to Russia this month, where he will meet with President Vladimir Putin to discuss potential arms supplies for the ongoing war in Ukraine, according to a report by The New York Times.

Kim’s journey from Pyongyang to Vladivostok, likely via an armored train, marks a pivotal moment in international relations, given that it is his first foreign visit since before the Covid-19 pandemic, shifting attention away from his main ally, China.

US and allied sources, as cited by The Times on Tuesday (5 Sept), suggest that this historic meeting may have far-reaching implications, particularly in the context of rising military cooperation between North Korea and Russia.

White House national security spokesman John Kirby expressed concern as arms negotiations between the two nations appeared to progress.

While in Vladivostok, the two leaders are expected to engage in discussions regarding Kim’s proposed shipment of artillery shells and anti-tank missiles to Russia. In return, Moscow would provide advanced technology for satellites and nuclear-powered submarines to North Korea, as reported by The Times.

The timing of Kim’s visit coincides with Russia’s announcement of discussions about holding joint military exercises with North Korea.

Russia’s Defense Minister, Sergei Shoigu, emphasised the importance of peaceful coexistence with neighbouring nations, citing an old Russian saying. He also confirmed that joint exercises were being considered.

South Korea’s intelligence agency, as cited by Yonhap news agency, had earlier reported that Shoigu, during his visit to Pyongyang in July, proposed a naval exercise involving North Korea, Russia, and China.

Andrei Lankov, a North Korea expert at Seoul’s Kookmin University, noted the significance of Kim’s choice to visit Russia instead of China, highlighting the potential for this meeting to lead to increased military cooperation and more North Korean workers in Russia.

In addition, both leaders may seek to convey political messages to the United States, South Korea, and Japan, particularly in light of their growing ties and displays of military power.

“For Moscow, it is basically about sending a signal to Washington that Russia is capable of creating some additional trouble for the United States in east Asia,” Lankov stated, emphasising the potential geopolitical implications.

Kim Jong Un’s primary goal in this meeting may not only involve arms sales or economic aid but also a demonstration of international backing at a time when the United States and its allies are strengthening their ties and flexing military muscles, according to Lankov. “He wants to show he has friends,” he added.

South Korea’s foreign ministry, meanwhile, has stressed the importance of adhering to sanctions and avoiding military cooperation with North Korea, as such actions undermine global peace and stability.

The Kremlin had previously expressed its intention to deepen its “mutually respectful relations” with North Korea, hailing it as one of its close Cold War allies. This relationship has been solidified by North Korea’s support for Russia’s claimed annexation of parts of Ukraine in 2022.

While it remains uncertain whether Kim will indeed travel to Moscow, his visit could hold significant implications for international politics, much like his father’s visit to Russia in 2011, just months before his death.

The United States has expressed concern about the active advancement of arms negotiations between Russia and North Korea and the potential sale of artillery ammunition from Pyongyang to Moscow, highlighting the complex dynamics at play in the region.