Discussion on the recent meeting between Kim Jong Un and Vladimir Putin in Russia, highlighting the historical friendship between the two countries. The chapter also explores the benefits and challenges for North Korea in emerging from self-isolation, as well as their struggle to feed their people.
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Quick takeaways
The meeting between Putin and Kim signifies a deepening friendship, with potential cooperation on arms deals and technology collaboration.
For North Korea, this meeting presents an opportunity for economic benefits, access to supplies, and advancement of military capabilities.
Deep dives
Growing Relationship between Russia and North Korea
The meeting between Russian President Vladimir Putin and North Korean leader Kim Jong-un signifies a culmination of a growing relationship between the two countries, particularly since Russia's invasion of Ukraine. Kim Jong-un has consistently expressed political and material support for Russia in their conflict with Ukraine, which has earned him rewards from the Russian side. This historic friendship has now reached a new level, with signs of deepening cooperation.
Implications for Ukraine and South Korea
The meeting between Putin and Kim, which took place at a Russian space launch facility, likely involved discussions on arms deals and technology collaboration. Russia's interest in North Korea stems from their limited options due to international condemnation of their actions in Ukraine. However, this may complicate relations with the US, NATO, and prolong Russia's ability to continue fighting in Ukraine. The meeting could also cause South Korea to reconsider its stance on arming Ukraine, as Russia's openness to cooperation with North Korea may prompt South Korea to support Ukraine more directly.
Opportunity for North Korea
For North Korea, this meeting presents an opportunity to benefit economically and alleviate some of the hardships its people have faced, including food shortages exacerbated by the pandemic. The reopening of borders and resumption of trade provide access to food, medicine, and other supplies. Additionally, the potential arms deal and technical cooperation with Russia can further advance North Korea's military capabilities. The country's utilitarian approach and pragmatism drive them to seize such opportunities, especially when the political risk is low.
Kim Jong Un took a bulletproof train to visit Vladimir Putin in Russia this week. Jenny Town at the Stimson Center explains how the two leaders have little to lose and much to gain from each other.
This episode was produced by Avishay Artsy with help from Hady Mawajdeh, edited by Amina Al-Sadi, fact-checked by Laura Bullard, engineered by David Herman, and hosted by Sean Rameswaram.
Transcript at vox.com/todayexplained
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