The bridge signifies deeper cooperation as both nations strengthen their partnership amid ongoing global tensions.
**North Korea and Russia Forge Ties with New Road Bridge Construction**
**North Korea and Russia Forge Ties with New Road Bridge Construction**
A landmark development in diplomatic relations as North Korea begins construction of its first road bridge to Russia.
North Korea has announced the commencement of construction for its first-ever road bridge to Russia, which it has termed a "significant" milestone in their bilateral relations, as reported by the state-run media, KCNA. The bridge will cross the Tumen river in the northeastern region of the country and will be located close to the existing Friendship Bridge, a remnant of Soviet-era infrastructure. According to the Russian media outlet Kommersant, the bridge is expected to be completed by mid-2026.
This development comes on the heels of North Korea's confirmation that it has sent troops to aid Russia in its ongoing conflict in Ukraine—an indication of the strengthening ties between the two nations. The collaboration has intensified significantly since Russia's invasion of Ukraine, which began in 2022. Plans for the bridge were originally set during Russian President Vladimir Putin's visit to Pyongyang last year, culminating in a signed agreement to enhance their "comprehensive strategic partnership."
Highlighting the broader implications of the bridge, Russian Prime Minister Mikhail Mishustin emphasized that the construction transcends mere engineering, noting that it represents a mutual desire to strengthen amicable, cooperative relations between Russia and North Korea.
Furthermore, the bridge's construction coincides with reports from South Korean lawmakers indicating that over 600 North Korean soldiers have perished supporting Russian military efforts in Ukraine, according to intelligence sources. In light of this military support, Russia has apparently offered North Korea advanced technologies related to surveillance satellites, drones, and anti-aircraft missiles.
Earlier in the week, North Korean authorities claimed their forces played a key role in the "complete liberation" of Russia's Kursk border region, despite ongoing skirmishes with Ukrainian armed forces.
This development comes on the heels of North Korea's confirmation that it has sent troops to aid Russia in its ongoing conflict in Ukraine—an indication of the strengthening ties between the two nations. The collaboration has intensified significantly since Russia's invasion of Ukraine, which began in 2022. Plans for the bridge were originally set during Russian President Vladimir Putin's visit to Pyongyang last year, culminating in a signed agreement to enhance their "comprehensive strategic partnership."
Highlighting the broader implications of the bridge, Russian Prime Minister Mikhail Mishustin emphasized that the construction transcends mere engineering, noting that it represents a mutual desire to strengthen amicable, cooperative relations between Russia and North Korea.
Furthermore, the bridge's construction coincides with reports from South Korean lawmakers indicating that over 600 North Korean soldiers have perished supporting Russian military efforts in Ukraine, according to intelligence sources. In light of this military support, Russia has apparently offered North Korea advanced technologies related to surveillance satellites, drones, and anti-aircraft missiles.
Earlier in the week, North Korean authorities claimed their forces played a key role in the "complete liberation" of Russia's Kursk border region, despite ongoing skirmishes with Ukrainian armed forces.
