North Korean leader Kim Jong Un has told Russian President Vladimir Putin that his country offers its “full and unconditional support” for Russia’s “sacred fight” to defend its security interests, in an apparent reference to the war in Ukraine, and says Pyongyang will always stand with Moscow on the “anti-imperialist” front. Kim also called North Korea’s relations with Russia “the first priority.” Putin in his opening remarks welcomed Kim to Russia and said he was glad to see him. Putin listed economic cooperation, humanitarian issues and the “situation in the region” among the agenda items for their talks. The two leaders were meeting Wednesday at Russia’s Vostochny cosmodrome, a remote Siberian rocket launch facility.
The decision to meet at Vostochny Cosmodrome, Russia's most important domestic satellite launch facility, suggests that Kim is seeking Russian technical assistance for his efforts to develop military reconnaissance satellites, which he has described as crucial in enhancing the threat of his nuclear-capable missiles. In recent months, North Korea has repeatedly failed to put its first military spy satellite into orbit.
Putin welcomed Kim's limousine, brought from Pyongyang in the North Korean leader's special armored train, at the entrance to the launch facility with a handshake that lasted around 40 seconds. Putin said he was “very glad to see” Kim. Kim's translator thanked Putin for the warm welcome, “despite being busy.”
Kim said his decision to visit Russia four years after his previous visit showed how Pyongyang is “prioritizing the strategic importance” of its relations with Moscow, North Korea’s official news agency said Wednesday.
Australia Latest News, Australia Headlines
Similar News:You can also read news stories similar to this one that we have collected from other news sources.
Moscow and Pyongyang confirm that North Korean leader Kim Jong Un will visit Russia to meet PutinRussia and North Korea confirmed Monday that North Korean leader Kim Jong Un will visit Russia.
Read more »
North Korea's Kim appears to have departed for Russia for summit with Putin -YTNNorth Korean leader Kim Jong Un appears to have departed for Russia for a summit with President Vladimir Putin, South Korean broadcaster YTN reported on Monday, citing an unnamed senior government source.
Read more »
North Korea’s Kim boards train bound for Russia and summit with Putin: reportsNorth Korea is one of the few countries to have openly supported Russia since the invasion of Ukraine last year.
Read more »
North Korea's Kim appears to be en route to Russia for a meeting with PutinA North Korean train presumed to be carrying leader Kim Jong Un has departed for Russia for a possible meeting between Kim and Vladimir Putin.
Read more »
Putin invites North Korea's Kim to RussiaAfter declining to comment on the visit, the Kremlin says it will happen in 'the coming days.'
Read more »