Russia thanked North Korea for supporting its war in Ukraine and pledged its “complete support and solidarity” for North Korean leader Kim Jong Un.
The comment came from Russian Foreign Minister (FM) Sergey Lavrov, who arrived in the secretive country on Wednesday for meetings. His visit is largely seen as setting up the stage for President Vladimir Putin, who has stepped up cooperation with North Korea in the wake of the Ukraine War.
Lavrov’s Comments
Speaking at a reception hosted by Pyongyang on Wednesday, Lavrov said that Moscow “deeply” values North Korea’s “unwavering and principled support” for the Ukraine War, which Moscow calls a “special military operation.”
“Likewise, the Russian Federation extends its complete support and solidarity with the aspirations of the DPRK (North Korea) ... in ... their chosen paths of development,” the FM said, according to the Russian Foreign Ministry’s website.
Hundreds of people have gathered to greet Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov upon his arrival in North Korea for a two-day trip.
— RT (@RT_com) October 18, 2023
Russia’s top diplomat is expected to hold talks with North Korean counterpart Choe Son-hui pic.twitter.com/M8zxkCMd3z
Moreover, Lavrov also praised North Korea for “remaining unfazed by any pressure of the US and the West.”
Speculation of Arms Supply
According to North Korean state media, Lavrov’s two-day visit will help in “further consolidating the friendship and solidarity between the two countries” and “promoting mutual trust.”
The top Russian diplomat’s visit to the country comes amid speculation of arms trade between the two countries in the face of Russia’s ongoing war with Ukraine, despite several warnings from the West to refrain from engaging in talks concerning arms supply to aid the Ukraine War.
The visit also comes a month after North Korean leader Kim Jong Un visited Russia with his top military officials, including Korean People’s Army Marshal Pak Jong Chon and Munitions Industry Department Director Jo Chun Ryong, further sparking speculation of arms sales. Kim also expressed Pyongyang’s “full support” to Russia’s struggle against Western “imperialists.”
Experts believe Moscow is seeking artillery shells and antitank missiles from its Korean ally, which, in turn, is looking to procure advanced satellite and nuclear-powered submarine technology.