Kim Jong Un Inspects Russia's Nuclear-Capable Strategic Bombers and Warships on Tour with Putin's Defence Minister

Summary:

• Kim inspecting nuclear-capable strategic bombers and warships on tour of Russia with Putin's Defence Minister Sparks Western Concerns
• North Korea accused of supplying arms to Moscow
• Military cooperation between North Korea and Russia criticized by US and South Korea

North Korea's Kim inspected nuclear-capable strategic bombers, hypersonic missiles and warships on Saturday, as he continued his official tour of Russia. He was accompanied by President Vladimir Putin's Defence Minister Sergei Shoigu.

Kim Jong Un Visits Russia's Military Arsenal Amid Budding Alliance with Putin

North Korean leader Kim Jong Un has raised concerns in the West by inspecting nuclear-capable strategic bombers, hypersonic missiles, and warships during his official tour of Russia. He visited the Russian Defense Ministry on Saturday, where President Vladimir Putin's Defense Minister Sergei Shoigu showed him the strategic bombers that form Russia's nuclear air attack force. The visit comes just days after Kim’s rare summit with Putin, during which the two leaders discussed military matters, the war in Ukraine, and Russian help for North Korea's satellite program.

Fears Over Military Cooperation Between North Korea and Russia

The recent summit and Kim's tour of Russia have raised concerns that North Korea could gain access to sensitive missile and other technologies from Moscow while strengthening Russia's military. The U.S. and South Korea have both expressed fears over the prospect of military cooperation between Russia and North Korea. They have also called it a violation of UN sanctions, but it remains unclear what leverage they have over either country.

Uncertainty Over Russia’s Relationship with North Korea

Despite concerns in the West, Putin has made it clear that Russia will continue developing relations with North Korea without violating anything; however, there is uncertainty over Russia’s relationship with North Korea. Washington has accused Pyongyang of providing arms to Moscow, which has the world's biggest store of nuclear warheads. But it is unclear whether any deliveries have been made, and North Korea and Moscow have both denied the allegation.

The Future of North Korea-Russia Alliance Remains In Question

Whether or not the budding alliance between Kim Jong Un and Vladimir Putin will have a significant impact on North Korea's relations with the West and the rest of the world remains to be seen. However, it is clear that the recent developments have raised concerns in the West, especially as North Korea has been under strict UN sanctions over its nuclear program.

Conclusion

Kim Jong Un’s visit to Russia's military arsenal and his recent summit with President Putin has caused concern in the West and led to fears that North Korea could gain access to sensitive technologies. While Russia has denied any formal agreements were made, the U.S and South Korea have branded military cooperation between Russia and North Korea a violation of UN sanctions. The situation remains uncertain, and it is unclear what leverage the U.S and its allies will have over either country. The international community continues to monitor the situation closely, including developments with North Korea's nuclear program.

Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov told reporters there had not been a plan to sign any formal agreements during the visit.