Russian Defense Minister Sergey Shoigu met with North Korean leader Kim Jong Un during a visit to Pyongyang, as reported by Russian news agencies.
Strengthening Military Ties
The visit occurs at a critical point in the war in Ukraine, while the United States and its allies consider allowing Ukraine to use Western-supplied long-range missiles to strike deep within Russian territory, according to Digi24.
The possibility of Ukraine using Western weapons on Russian soil has alarmed Moscow. Russian President Vladimir Putin warned that if such actions took place, it would lead to direct conflict between Russia and the West.
Despite Moscow and Pyongyang denying any weapon transfers, the two nations have committed to strengthening their military ties.
Discussing International Issues
Since the onset of the war in Ukraine, Russia has deepened its relationship with North Korea. Kim Jong Un hosted Putin for a state visit in June.
Shoigu, now the Secretary of the Security Council, a key body that includes Russia’s military and intelligence chiefs, represented Russia during the recent talks.
Russia’s state news agency RIA reported that the discussions focused on a range of bilateral and international issues.
According to the Security Council, the meetings took place in a “trustworthy, friendly atmosphere,” and the outcomes will significantly contribute to implementing agreements made between Putin and Kim during their summit three months ago.
