Kim Jong Un’s Possible Russia Visit Sparks Tensions as North Korea-Russia Ties Deepen

As the potential return of a Trump administration looms, North Korea and Russia are strengthening their military ties, increasing the likelihood of North Korean leader Kim Jong Un’s visit to Russia. Russia’s invitation to North Korean troops for next year’s Victory Day celebration has sparked speculation that Kim might personally set foot on Russian soil for the event.

Foreign media reports reveal that Russian Defense Minister Andrey Belousov visited North Korea on November 29. He met with Kim Jong Un and invited North Korean soldiers to participate in the 80th anniversary Victory Day parade in Red Square. The Russian Ministry of Defense expressed optimism and eagerly awaits Pyongyang’s response.

Russia’s annual Victory Day celebration, held each May in Red Square, commemorates the Soviet triumph over Nazi Germany. The military parade serves as the event’s centerpiece, providing Russia with a platform to showcase its military might.

During his meeting with Belousov, Kim emphasized North Korea’s unwavering support for Russia in defending its sovereignty and territorial integrity against what he described as “imperialist hegemonic maneuvers.” He also criticized the U.S. and Western allies for providing long-range strike weapons to Ukraine, viewing it as direct military involvement in Russia’s territorial disputes. Kim suggested that Belousov’s visit would strengthen the defense and security of both nations.

The South Korean government closely monitors the growing relationship between Pyongyang and Moscow. The Ministry of Unification highlighted recent high-level diplomatic exchanges, including Foreign Minister Choe Son Hui’s visit to Russia and reciprocal visits by top defense and diplomacy officials. Kim’s warm reception of the Russian defense minister was seen as a clear indication of the strengthening ties between the two countries.

Some analysts suggest that Kim himself might attend the Victory Day event instead of sending North Korean troops. This speculation arises from North Korea’s reluctance to officially acknowledge its military involvement in Ukraine, which could make troop participation in the parade politically sensitive.

Jeon Seong Hoon, former head of the Korea Institute for National Unification, pointed out the unusual nature of foreign troops participating in such a national celebration. He suggested that given North Korea’s stance on the Ukraine conflict, it’s more probable that Kim would attend as North Korea’s representative rather than sending troops.

Jeon emphasized the need for creative thinking to anticipate and respond to unprecedented scenarios, such as North Korea’s involvement in the Ukraine conflict.

Experts predict that the strengthening ties between North Korea and Russia will persist beyond the potential return of a Trump administration or the conclusion of the Ukraine conflict.

Jeon added that the North Korea-Russia alliance extends beyond the Ukraine situation, representing a long-term, strategic partnership. He believes both nations will continue to use their alliance to counter U.S. influence even after the conflict in Ukraine concludes.