In pictures: In North Korea, Vladimir Putin and Kim Jong Un's bromance blooms
Russian president Vladimir Putin visited North Korea to meet with Kim Jong Un to strengthen relations between the two countries, which are isolated by much of the world. The public display of the two leaders’ friendship was evident during the visit, indicating a strong bond between them
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Russian president Vladimir Putin is in North Korea, his first trip to the hermit kingdom in 24 years. He was embraced by North Korean leader Kim Jong Un on his arrival at Pyongyang’s airport in the early hours of Wednesday (19 June) before the two headed to Kumsusan State Guest House. AP
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Kim Jong-un and Vladimir Putin’s bromance blossomed amid geopolitical shifts, with the North Korean dictator finding a new confidant in the Russian president after the failed Hanoi summit with former US president Donald Trump. AP
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Putin’s engagement with North Korea dates back to the beginning of his presidency, but Russia’s true partner has been South Korea, with nearly $30bn in trade volume in 2021. North Korea, subject to severe sanctions, was never an appealing partner for Russia. Not until the war in Ukraine began. AFP
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Putin courted Kim for weapons to fuel his war in Ukraine, leading to an “unbreakable relationship of comrades-in-arms,” as declared by Kim in a recent message. AP
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The bromance deepened as Kim made fresh overtures to Russia, who responded warmly only after its invasion of Ukraine faced setbacks and a dire need for munitions arose.. AP
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Russia and North Korea’s renewed affinity has seen delegations working on agriculture, culture, security, and technology shuttling between the two countries. All the while, the relationship between Kim and Putin has deepened. AP
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- American officials allege North Korea has shipped around 11,000 containers of arms to Russia since September, including artillery shells and ballistic missiles. AFP
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Arm in arm, Kim and Putin celebrate their friendship. Their alliance, now formalized through a comprehensive strategic partnership, promises mutual assistance and cooperation, reshaping the geopolitical landscape and reinforcing their positions on the global stage. AP
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