In Pyongyang, Vladimir Putin tells Kim Jong-un “appreciates North Korean support” for Russian policy

Russian President Vladimir Putin and North Korean leader Kim Jong-un began their talks on Wednesday June 19 as part of a bilateral summit. “We very much appreciate your systematic and permanent support of Russian policy, including on the Ukrainian issue”, declared Vladimir Putin on this occasion. He was first welcomed during a solemn ceremony in Pyongyang’s main square, Russian news agencies reported. “The Russian president’s motorcade, led by the Aurus limousine in which [Vladimir] Putin went to Kim Il Sung Square”, where the North Korean leader first welcomed him, Interfax reported. The Russian head of state and the North Korean number one then “started negotiations within the framework of their delegations”at the official Kumsusan residence, RIA Novosti said.

This is the Russian president’s first visit to North Korea in 24 years. The two leaders are expected to address strengthening military relations between the two countries during their talks, against the backdrop of the Russian military operation in Ukraine.