International alliances often shift in response to global pressures.
For Russia and North Korea, shared interests have brought their governments closer in recent months.
On Monday, a significant sign of this growing bond was evident:
The reopening of their long-dormant railway link, which had been shut down in 2020 due to the pandemic.
A Symbolic First Journey
At 3:30 p.m. local time, the first train since the pandemic crossed the border. It traveled from Khasan in Russia to Tumangang station in North Korea.
The journey, though modest — carrying just two Russian passengers — was highly symbolic, according to Digi24. It signified a step toward strengthening connections between the two nations.
Russian customs officials confirmed that passenger trains will now run three days a week: Monday, Wednesday, and Friday.
The border checkpoint will operate daily from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. Regular train traffic had partially resumed in June but on a limited basis. Only 1,200 passengers crossed the border in those initial months.
More Than Just Railways
Transportation links are just one part of the growing relationship between Moscow and Pyongyang.
Earlier this year, the two governments agreed to increase flights between their countries. Currently, only Pyongyang and Vladivostok are connected by air.
The deepening ties extend beyond infrastructure. North Korea is alleged to have supplied Russia with significant quantities of ammunition. In return, reports claim Moscow is transferring civilian, military, and space-related technology to Pyongyang.
Thousands of containers with North Korean weapons have reportedly been shipped from the port of Rason to aid Russia’s military efforts.
The partnership also includes strategic military agreements. A recently signed treaty guarantees mutual assistance in case of aggression.
Additionally, over 10,000 North Korean soldiers are said to be in Russia, allegedly supporting its operations in Ukraine's border regions.
