Kim Jong Un’s Historic Visit to Russia Raises Concerns Over Potential Weapons Transfer Deals

On Sunday, North Korean leader Kim Jong Un departed Russia after a six-day trip that raised global concerns about potential weapons transfer deals between the two countries. Kim’s armored train left from Artyom, a city in Russia’s Far East, to the sound of the Russian patriotic march song “Farewell of Slavianka,” according to Russia’s state news agency RIA.

The visit was Kim’s first to Russia since taking power in 2011 and his fourth meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin. During the trip, Kim and Putin discussed a range of issues, including North Korea’s nuclear weapons program and the economic sanctions imposed on the country by the United States and its allies.

The two leaders also discussed ways to strengthen economic ties between Russia and North Korea. Kim reportedly asked Putin for economic assistance, including investment in North Korea’s infrastructure, and Putin promised to provide assistance.

It is unclear what, if any, weapons transfer deals were discussed during the trip. However, the visit has raised concerns about the potential for increased military cooperation between the two countries.

Kim’s visit to Russia is seen as a sign of the growing ties between the two countries, which have been locked in separate standoffs with the West. The two leaders have met four times since Kim took power in 2011, and the visit is seen as a sign of the strengthening relationship between the two countries.