North Korean leader Kim Jong Un's heavily-armored private train has entered Russia, raising speculation about an impending summit with Russian President Vladimir Putin. The United States has expressed concerns that the two leaders could strike an arms deal during their meeting, potentially providing North Korea with access to advanced weaponry, which has been restricted by international sanctions, CNN reported.
Kim's Arrival in Russia
Kim's train crossed into Russia via the Far East region of Primorsky Krai, with South Korea's Defense Ministry confirming his entry into Russia early in morning on September 12. A video geolocated near the Russian-North Korean border by the Tumen river showed the train purportedly carrying Kim. This visit is significant as it brings together two leaders increasingly isolated on the world stage.
Possible Implications of the Meeting
Both Russia and North Korea have pressing needs that could be addressed through negotiations. Russia requires fresh supplies of ammunition and shells due to its military's prolonged involvement in the conflict in Ukraine. Meanwhile, North Korea, which has faced years of international sanctions, is experiencing shortages of essential resources, including cash, food, and missile technology. The meeting between Kim and Putin could potentially lead to North Korea gaining access to weapons and technology that have been off-limits due to United Nations sanctions, particularly for its nuclear-capable ballistic missile program.
U.S. Government's Warning
The United States government has expressed concerns about potential arms negotiations between Russia and North Korea. White House national security adviser Jake Sullivan warned that North Korea would "pay a price" if it struck an arms deal with Russia. The White House also urged North Korea not to provide or sell arms to Russia. These warnings underscore the seriousness of the situation and the potential consequences of such negotiations.
“As we have warned publicly, arms discussions between Russia and the DPRK are expected to continue during Kim Jong Un’s trip to Russia,”
reported Adrienne Watson., National Security Council spokesperson.
Kim's Rare Foreign Trip
Kim Jong Un's visit to Russia is a rare foreign trip for the leader of one of the world's most isolated nations. It is his first visit abroad since the onset of the Covid-19 pandemic, which led to the sealing of North Korea's borders. Since coming to power in 2011, Kim has ventured abroad only ten times, all occurring in 2018 and 2019, during which he engaged in talks concerning North Korea's nuclear weapons and missile programs.
Kim's preference for traveling in an upscale armored train has long been a subject of intrigue, and his arrival in Russia marks a significant development. If an arms deal were to be struck, it could have far-reaching consequences. North Korea's missile program has advanced rapidly in recent years, including the testing of intercontinental ballistic missiles (ICBMs) that theoretically could reach the US mainland. Gaining access to Russian technology would be a substantial boost for North Korea's military capabilities, raising concerns among Western leaders.
Expert Opinions
Leif-Eric Easley, a professor of international studies at Ewha Womans University in Seoul, highlighted the significance of a one-on-one meeting between Kim and Putin. He noted that Russia possesses the military technology that Kim seeks for his satellite launch and nuclear weapons delivery programs.
Analysts have pointed out that Russia's need for ammunition and small arms, areas where North Korea has strong production capabilities, could align with North Korea's desire for access to advanced weaponry.
However, some experts suggest that North Korean ammunition alone may not be a game-changer for Russia in Ukraine but could help replenish depleted stocks and prolong the conflict.
The upcoming summit between Kim Jong Un and Vladimir Putin in Russia raises significant concerns about the possibility of an arms deal that could provide North Korea with access to advanced weaponry and technology.
Earlier Daryo reporte that on July 25, a Russian delegation, headed by Defense Minister Sergei Shoigu, visited North Korea to take part in the commemoration of the 70th anniversary of the conclusion of the Korean War.
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