Kim Jong-un, the North Korean leader, continues his trip to Russia by visiting an aircraft factory in Komsomolsk-on-Amur. This visit comes two days after his meeting with Vladimir Putin, where the two leaders discussed strengthening cooperation between their two countries, particularly in the military field.
The aircraft factory visited by Kim Jong-un is Yuri Gagarin, of the manufacturer Sukhoi. This factory produces Su-35 and Su-57 combat aircraft, demonstrating Russia’s technological and industrial capabilities in the field of military aviation. According to some sources, the North Korean leader may also visit an aviation sector company producing military and civilian equipment.
This visit raises many questions and concerns at the international level. The United States has expressed concern, fearing that Russia may purchase weapons from North Korea to support its military operations in Ukraine. In addition, international sanctions targeting North Korea due to its nuclear and missile programs complicate any military cooperation between the two countries.
However, this visit can be seen as an attempt by Kim Jong-un to diversify his partners and move away from dependence on China. Russia, being a major player on the international scene and having a strategic geographical position, could offer North Korea interesting economic and military partnerships.
It remains to be seen whether this visit will result in concrete agreements between Russia and North Korea. For the moment, no official information has been communicated on possible arms delivery contracts or military collaboration.
In conclusion, Kim Jong-un’s visit to an aircraft factory in Russia highlights the North Korean leader’s efforts to strengthen relations with countries other than China. This visit, however, raises concerns and questions about possible military cooperation between Russia and North Korea. Time will tell whether this visit will lead to concrete agreements.