In a recent conversation with North Korean leader Kim Jong Un, President Putin reaffirmed their partnership while preparing for his meeting with Trump. The collaboration involves military support and an influx of North Korean workers in Russia, raising humanitarian concerns.
Putin Strengthens Ties with North Korea Amid Upcoming Trump Talks
Putin Strengthens Ties with North Korea Amid Upcoming Trump Talks
As Russia's military campaign in Ukraine continues, President Putin emphasizes friendship with Kim Jong Un, coinciding with imminent discussions with former President Trump.
Russian President Vladimir Putin has expressed a continued commitment to strengthening relations with North Korean leader Kim Jong Un, just ahead of his anticipated talks with former President Donald Trump. This development occurs amidst reports highlighting the dire conditions faced by numerous North Korean laborers dispatched to Russia for various construction projects.
During a conversation earlier this week, Putin praised North Korea for its military assistance in the context of Russia’s ongoing war against Ukraine. With Russia currently experiencing new military advancements in Ukraine, including a significant push near the eastern town of Dobropillia, the alliance with North Korea appears more crucial than ever.
The Kremlin has released a statement stating that both leaders reiterated their dedication to fostering their friendship, emphasizing a spirit of cooperation and good-neighborliness. Notably, Putin shared updates regarding the preparation for the upcoming summit in Alaska with Trump, although this point was not mentioned in North Korea's official response.
In the backdrop of the war, North Korea's military support has reportedly included thousands of troops who have deployed to assist Russia, with estimates suggesting at least 10,000 North Korean soldiers are now actively participating alongside Russian forces. Moreover, North Korea has supplied Russia with essential munitions, such as missiles and artillery shells, while thousands of North Korean laborers are being utilized to fill positions left vacant due to casualties among Russian soldiers or the flight of many citizens from the conflict.
Reports of North Koreans working under "slave-like" conditions have emerged, raising significant ethical concerns about the treatment of these workers amidst the ongoing conflict. As Putin moves forward with this strategic partnership, scrutiny on the implications of North Korean collaboration with Russia continues to grow, especially as he prepares to engage in discussions with Trump for the first time since the onset of the invasion of Ukraine in February 2022.
