Russian President Vladimir Putin received a warm welcome in Pyongyang on Wednesday, where North Korean leader Kim Jong Un expressed strong support for Russia’s actions in Ukraine and pledged to deepen strategic ties with Moscow.

A Warm Welcome

Putin’s visit began with a grand ceremony at Kim Il Sung Square, where a large crowd, including children holding balloons, gathered. The event featured an honor guard and giant portraits of the two leaders. After the formalities, Kim and Putin traveled to the Kumsusan Palace for their summit.

During their meeting, Putin praised North Korea’s support for Russia’s policies, particularly concerning Ukraine. He described Russia’s conflict with Ukraine as a fight against the imperialist policies of the United States and its allies. Kim reciprocated by highlighting the evolving global situation and stressed the importance of strengthening strategic communication with Russia.

Kim emphasized North Korea’s full support for Russia’s “special military operation” in Ukraine, viewing it as a defense of sovereignty and territorial integrity. The meeting underscored a new era of high prosperity in North Korea-Russia relations, according to Kim.

Historical Visit

This trip marks Putin’s first visit to Pyongyang in 24 years, signifying a potential shift in the long-standing relationship between the two nations. The partnership is portrayed as crucial for building a multipolar world, according to North Korea’s state media.

Russia and North Korea’s growing relationship serves as a counterbalance to U.S. influence, with North Korea gaining political backing and economic promises from Moscow. Meanwhile, the U.S. and its allies have raised concerns about potential military cooperation between the two countries, which both Moscow and Pyongyang have denied.

Despite the significant visit, the reception for Putin was relatively modest compared to the lavish ceremonies for Chinese President Xi Jinping in 2019. Nevertheless, the streets of Pyongyang were adorned with portraits of Putin, and the iconic Ryugyong Hotel was illuminated with a welcoming message for the Russian leader.

Future Cooperation

Putin’s agenda in Pyongyang includes a gala concert, state reception, honor guards, and the signing of documents. He has praised North Korea for resisting U.S. economic pressures and expressed a desire to develop alternative trade mechanisms outside Western control. This approach is aimed at fostering economic growth in North Korea through an anti-West bloc led by Russia.

Putin announced plans to sign a comprehensive strategic partnership treaty with North Korea, focusing on security and cooperation. The treaty is not intended to target any specific country but aims to outline future cooperation prospects.