Kim Jong-un, the leader of North Korea, is scheduled to travel to Russia this month to meet with President Vladimir V. Putin. The purpose of the meeting is to discuss the possibility of supplying Russia with additional weaponry for its war in Ukraine, as well as to explore other areas of military cooperation.
The visit by Kim Jong-un will be a rare departure from his country. He is expected to travel from Pyongyang, North Korea’s capital, most likely by armored train, to Vladivostok on the east coast of Russia, where he will meet with Mr. Putin. It is uncertain whether Kim will also visit Moscow.
According to officials, Mr. Putin wants Mr. Kim to agree to supply Russia with artillery shells and antitank missiles, while Mr. Kim hopes that Russia will provide North Korea with advanced technology for satellites and nuclear-powered submarines. Kim is also seeking food aid for his impoverished nation.
Both leaders are expected to attend the Eastern Economic Forum, scheduled to be held at the Far Eastern Federal University in Vladivostok from September 10 to 13. Kim also plans to visit Pier 33, where naval ships from Russia’s Pacific fleet dock.
The United States has warned about a possible arms deal between Russia and North Korea, citing declassified intelligence. The US is urging North Korea to cease its arms negotiations with Russia and to honor its commitments not to provide or sell arms to Russia. US officials consider both Kim Jong-un and Vladimir Putin as adversaries.
In late August, a delegation of about 20 North Korean officials traveled to Russia to plan for Kim’s visit. The trip took around 10 days and included a visit to Vostochny Cosmodrome, a space launch center located about 950 miles north of Vladivostok.
The idea for Kim’s visit originated during a trip to North Korea by Russia’s defense minister, Sergei K. Shoigu, in July. Kim expressed his views on mutual concerns in the struggle to safeguard the sovereignty and interests of both countries.
The strengthening of the alliance between Russia and North Korea is seen as advantageous for two countries that have few allies and share the United States as a common adversary.