North Korea’s Kim Jong Un Meets with Russian President Putin in Russia Amidst Arms Trade Concerns

North Korean leader Kim Jong Un has arrived in Russia for talks with President Vladimir Putin, accompanied by top defense industry officials. Kim traveled to Russia on his private train, accompanied by a delegation of arms industry and military officials. Video footage showed Kim stepping off his train onto a red carpet at a station in the Russian far east, where he was greeted by a welcome delegation and a military band. The purpose of Kim’s visit remains uncertain, but discussions between the two leaders could cover humanitarian aid to North Korea, U.N. Security Council resolutions imposed against Pyongyang, and potential defense industry cooperation. The visit has raised concerns among Washington and its allies, who have expressed worry about increasing military cooperation between Russia and North Korea. U.S. officials have warned against the possibility of arms deals between the two countries, particularly in relation to the war in Ukraine. However, Russian officials have brushed off these warnings, stating that their national interests would dictate their policies. Kim’s visit marks his second summit with Putin, following their meeting in 2019.