Putin Strengthens Ties with North Korea Through Unique Animal Gift Exchange

In a show of solidarity between Russia and North Korea, President Vladimir Putin has sent a diverse array of over 70 zoo animals to North Korea's capital, including a lion and bears. This gesture comes as both countries seek to bolster their alliance while facing Western sanctions.

 

Russian President Vladimir Putin has recently solidified his relationship with North Korea by gifting more than 70 zoo animals to its main zoo, a gesture marked by the inclusion of a lion and two brown bears. This significant gift, which also features animals such as two yaks, five cockatoos, and various pheasants and mandarin ducks, was delivered to Pyongyang by Putin's environment minister, Alexander Kozlov, via a cargo plane. The Russian Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment made the announcement on its official Telegram channel.

This animal gift comes shortly after reports that North Korea has contributed thousands of troops to assist Russia in its military efforts in Ukraine, signifying a deepening military and diplomatic relationship between the two nations. Kozlov also paid a courtesy visit to North Korean leader Kim Jong Un during his trip, further demonstrating the growing ties.

This is not the first instance of animal gifting in the Putin-Kim relationship; earlier in the year, Putin sent 24 pure-bred horses to North Korea as a token of appreciation for munitions provided by Pyongyang. The alliance marks mutual support, wherein Russia seeks North Korea's backing for its military endeavors while addressing both countries' needs — North Korea seeks assistance with its missile technology, potentially benefitting from Russia's advancements in space technology.

The strengthening of this relationship was previously showcased during Putin's visit to North Korea in June, where he signed an agreement with Kim aimed at mutual defense against perceived aggression. This visit also included presents for Kim, such as a luxury Aurus limousine, tea sets, and artworks—a reflection of Kim's known enthusiasm for luxury cars, having been seen in various high-end automobile models.

As geopolitical tensions continue to shape international relations, the alliance between Russia and North Korea exemplifies the strategic partnerships being forged in the face of Western sanctions and global political dynamics.