Putin and Kim Jong Un’s ‘Blood Alliance’ Raises Concerns
Russian President Vladimir Putin and North Korean leader Kim Jong Un have reportedly formed a ‘blood alliance’ during arms-deal talks in Russia. This development has raised concerns about the possibility of North Korea supplying Moscow with ammunition. Putin has accepted an invitation to visit North Korea, indicating his eagerness to strengthen ties with Pyongyang amid his ongoing conflict in Ukraine.
Putin’s Desperation and Isolation
Observers have noted that Putin’s plea to Kim for aging ammunition and rockets to support his war in Ukraine is a sign of his desperation and isolation. The fact that he had to request such assistance from North Korea has underscored his dire situation on the international stage.
Invitation and Warm Exchange
During the rare summit, Putin and Kim referred to each other as ‘comrades’ and shared a dinner featuring crab dumplings, sturgeon, and beef. Putin accepted Kim’s invitation to visit North Korea, emphasizing the strengthening of cooperation and friendship between the two countries.
Concerns Over Arms Agreement
Western countries have expressed concerns about a potential arms agreement between Russia and North Korea, given Russia’s ongoing war in Ukraine. Experts warn that an alliance between North Korea, Russia, and China could destabilize the region, and North Korean ammunition could significantly impact the conflict in Ukraine.
Seismic Shift in Geopolitics
Some experts see the summit as a significant shift in Northeast Asian geopolitics, likening the relations between North Korea and Russia to the Cold War-era blood alliance. This shift has raised concerns about the implications of such an alliance, especially regarding military cooperation and arms deals.
Reactions and Diplomatic Concerns
Diplomatic reactions to the summit have been mixed. South Korea’s ruling party criticized what it called ‘a devil’s deal’ between Moscow and Pyongyang. Japan also expressed concerns about potential violations of UN bans on arms deals with North Korea following the talks.
Invitations and Military Discussions
Kim invited Putin to visit North Korea, and Putin reciprocated with enthusiasm, emphasizing the history and tradition of Russia-DPRK friendship. During the summit, discussions reportedly included Russia’s need for artillery shells and anti-tank missiles, while North Korea sought the sharing of submarine and satellite technology secrets.
Site Visits and Toasts
The leaders met at the Vostochny spaceport in Russia’s far eastern Amur region, where Kim toured the facilities. He is expected to visit other Russian military sites, including an aircraft plant in Komsomolsk-on-Amur and ships from Russia’s Pacific Fleet in Vladivostok. During a toast, Kim praised the Russian army’s role in Putin’s ‘sacred struggle’ in Ukraine, while Putin expressed wishes for strengthened cooperation and friendship between their nations.