Sergei Shoigu, Russia’s Security Council Secretary, visited North Korea to meet Kim Jong-un, marking his second visit in six months. This diplomatic effort coincides with North Korea’s military support for Russia in the Ukraine conflict, including the deployment of approximately 12,000 troops. Additionally, North Korea is receiving technological assistance from Russia for drone development.
Sergei Shoigu, the Secretary of Russia’s Security Council, has arrived in North Korea for a second visit in six months to engage in discussions with leader Kim Jong-un, as reported by the South Korean news agency Yonhap. This visit, which took place on March 21, follows a significant diplomatic interaction where Shoigu is expected to confer with Kim and other North Korean officials regarding various matters.
Earlier this month, Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Andrey Rudenko visited North Korea and conferred with North Korean Foreign Minister Choe Son-hui, focusing on enhancing “political contacts at the high and top levels.” These interactions signal a strengthening alignment between North Korea and Russia amid ongoing geopolitical tensions.
Reports indicate these meetings occur in the context of North Korea’s military assistance to Russia in the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. Notably, Shoigu’s previous visit to Pyongyang occurred in September 2024, where similar discussions took place.
Furthermore, intelligence reveals that North Korea has allegedly deployed around 12,000 soldiers to Russia to assist in the conflict in Ukraine. Their involvement has seen some North Korean forces engaged in battles within Russia’s Kursk region, although they were temporarily withdrawn due to significant casualties before being redeployed for subsequent operations.
In addition to troop deployments, there are reports from Asian media suggesting that North Korea is receiving technological support from Moscow to advance its drone development initiatives. This partnership indicates deepening military cooperation as both nations navigate their respective geopolitical challenges.
In summary, Sergei Shoigu’s visit to North Korea for the second time within six months underscores a strengthening alliance between Russia and North Korea. This partnership is highlighted by military cooperation, including North Korea’s troop deployment to aid Moscow in its conflict with Ukraine, and the exchange of technology for drone development. Such developments are pivotal in shaping the regional security landscape.
Original Source: newsukraine.rbc.ua
