North Korean leader Kim Jong Un has reached Russia , as reported by Japanese media on Tuesday (Sep 12). The Kremlin has stated that Kim will engage in an extensive discussion with President Vladimir Putin, despite warnings from Washington against any potential arms deal between the two leaders.
According to North Korea’s state media, Kim Jong Un departed to Russia from Pyongyang on his private train on Sunday, accompanied by high-ranking officials from the arms industry, military, and the foreign minister.
Japanese news agency Kyodo, citing an unnamed Russian official source, confirmed on Tuesday that Kim’s train had arrived at Khasan station, which serves as the primary rail gateway from North Korea to Russia’s Far East. South Korea’s Defence Ministry spokesperson expressed belief that Kim entered Russia early on Tuesday.
Kim’s foreign travels have been infrequent, with only seven trips outside North Korea during his 12-year rule. Notably, four of these trips were to China, North Korea’s primary political ally.
“A full-fledged visit”
Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov has described Kim’s visit as a “full-fledged visit.” It will involve negotiations between two delegations, with the possibility of one-on-one discussions between the leaders afterward.
However, officials in the Khasan administration have declined to comment on reports of Kim’s arrival. US officials initially indicated that Kim’s visit was imminent and suggested that arms talks between Russia and North Korea were progressing actively. Many anticipate that Kim and Putin will engage in discussions regarding the potential for Russia to supply weapons for the conflict in Ukraine.
Vladimir Putin arrived in Vladivostok on Monday, according to Russia’s TASS news agency. His schedule includes his participation in the plenary session of the Eastern Economic Forum, which will continue through Wednesday.
Peskov has mentioned that the meeting between Putin and Kim will take place after the forum and clarified that no joint news conference by the leaders has been scheduled, as reported by Russian news agencies.