MOSCOW — Russian President Vladimir Putin has formally invited North Korean leader Kim Jong Un to visit Russia following a high-profile meeting in Beijing, the Kremlin said on Wednesday.
The two leaders held talks lasting more than two hours, underscoring deepening ties between Moscow and Pyongyang amid the ongoing war in Ukraine. A video released by the Kremlin showed the pair embracing as their meeting concluded. “See you soon,” Kim said through an interpreter, to which Putin responded: “We are waiting for you, come visit us.”
During the talks, Kim pledged unwavering support to Moscow, vowing to do “everything I can to assist” Russia. Putin expressed gratitude for Pyongyang’s backing, specifically thanking North Korea for sending troops to support Russian operations in Ukraine. While details of military cooperation were not disclosed, the exchange highlighted strengthening coordination between the two countries, both heavily sanctioned by the West.
Analysts view the meeting as part of a broader effort by Russia to expand strategic alliances in Asia and offset Western isolation. North Korea, facing its own international sanctions, has emerged as a key partner for Moscow, with reports suggesting growing defense and economic cooperation.
The invitation to Russia marks another step in consolidating this partnership, following Putin’s historic visit to Pyongyang earlier this year. A potential Kim visit to Moscow would further symbolize the alignment of the two governments in opposition to US-led alliances and reinforce their shared narrative of resisting Western pressure.
