It was recently reported by the Associated Press that Sergey Lavrov, Russia's top diplomat met with his North Korean equivalent, Choe Son Hui to discuss strengthening the ties between the two territories amidst global concerns regarding an apparent arms collaboration between North Korea's capital, Pyongyang, and Russia's well known Moscow.
Russia's President Vladimir Putin delivers a video address, on June 24, 2023, as Wagner fighters stage rebellion. President Vladimir Putin addresses the nation, the Kremlin said on June 24, 2023, as Russia faced a rebellion by the Wagner mercenary group that has vowed to topple Moscow's military leadership.
The Meeting Itself
The meeting opened with Lavrov stating he and Hui would converse about "active work" on fulfilling agreements reached by the two respective leaders of the territories. Recently last September leader of North Korea, Kim Jong Un visited Russia and was hosted by President Putin where military sites were viewed which resulted in global concern about a potential arms alliance that would restore Moscow's weapons supplies amid the conflict with Ukraine. As the day goes on Putin himself is set to meet with Hui. In addition, Kremlin spokesperson, Demitri Peskov stated that he will also visit North Korea by invitation "at a convenient time" and "on mutual agreement".
Lavrov also spoke on Tuesday about a "close and fruitful" between the two territories at the United Nations and other global organizations. Also noting that Russia "highly appreciates" Pyongyang's support for Russia's military acts in Ukraine. Hui also echoed a similar sentiment stating "We will take every effort to develop our relations".
Both the United States and South Korea have assigned guilt to North Korea for providing Russia with artillery arms and missiles for Russia to use in its conflict with Ukraine. Even earlier this month United States National Security Council spokesperson, John Kirby, that Russia has already been using ballistic missiles provided by North Korea. However, both countries have dismissed these accusations.
It is still unclear whether the conflict between these two neighbors will have a ripple effect that pulls in other territories but it is clear that the conflict has other territories around the globe chatting about how the conflict will play a role in their politics and military actions. Ukraine has also discussed how currently Russian airstrikes have been placing a heavy burden on its air defense capabilities and has reached out to allies for more aid.
