On the night of June 17-18, an aircraft carrying Russian President Vladimir Putin landed at an airport in North Korea.
According to Ziare Putin hurried off the plane to greet his close friend, North Korean leader Kim Jong-un, who personally arrived at the airport to embrace the Russian president.
The two leaders shared a warm, almost theatrical moment, culminating in a humorous standoff as each refused to be the first to enter the car, drawing amusement online.
A Rare Diplomatic Gesture
In preparation for Putin's visit, Pyongyang adorned the city with Russian flags and portraits of the Russian leader, reflecting the grandeur typical of dictatorial regimes.
This visit marks Putin's first trip to North Korea in 24 years. In a pre-visit interview with Russian media, Putin expressed gratitude for North Korea's support in the war against Ukraine and emphasized his desire to strengthen bilateral relations.
This historic visit underscores the deepening ties between the two nations amid global geopolitical shifts.
Strategic Agreements on the Horizon
Experts predict that the meeting between Putin and Kim Jong-un will result in several economic and military agreements.
While still in Moscow, Putin ordered the establishment of a new comprehensive strategic partnership agreement with North Korea, the details of which remain confidential.
Analysts suggest that the agreement likely involves arms supplies to Russia in exchange for space technology transfers to Pyongyang. Leif-Erik Isley, a professor at Inhwa University in Seoul, views Putin's visit as a significant success, enhancing North Korea's status among anti-Western countries and signaling Russia's appreciation for North Korea's military support.
