BBC Moscow producer Ben Tavener and Seoul correspondent Jean Mackenzie discuss Putin's alliance with North Korea, potential weapon supplies, and the implications for Ukraine amidst the conflict. The episode sheds light on Putin's secretive visit, military cooperation, and the concerns of Western leaders. It also previews an upcoming interview with General Sir Richard Sheerif advocating for allied support for Ukraine.
North Korea supplies ammunition to Russia, aiding Ukraine war.
Putin's visit to North Korea showcases alliances beyond the West, bolstering global influence.
Deep dives
North Korea-Russia Relationship and Military Cooperation
The podcast discusses the deepening relationship between North Korea and Russia, highlighting how North Korea supplies Russia with ammunition like shells and ballistic missiles. Despite denials, evidence suggests military cooperation between the two countries, aiding Russia's weaponry needs during its invasion of Ukraine. This partnership raises concerns among Western officials about potential security threats posed by Russia's alliances.
Vladimir Putin's Geopolitical Strategy with North Korea
Vladimir Putin's visit to North Korea is seen as a strategic move to showcase his international alliances beyond the West, especially amid Russia's isolation due to the Ukraine conflict. By nurturing ties with North Korea and other anti-Western countries like China and Iran, Putin aims to bolster Russia's global influence and counterbalance Western dominance. The visit underscores Putin's efforts to strengthen geopolitical partnerships with nations critical of Western powers.
Impact of North Korea-Russia Arms Trade on Ukraine Conflict
The potential escalation of weapons supply from North Korea to Russia through this relationship poses a significant threat to Ukraine's ongoing conflict with Russia. If North Korea provides advanced weaponry to Russia, it could complicate Ukraine's defense efforts and increase the intensity of the war. The delivery of missiles and shells from North Korea to Russia has already affected Ukrainian territories, signaling a concerning development in the conflict dynamics.
What will Putin’s meeting with North Korea’s leader Kim Jong Un mean for Ukraine? Reports suggest that North Korea is supplying weapons to Russia to use in its war in Ukraine. With the two leaders meeting for the second time in under a year, this growing alliance is making some Western leaders uneasy.
Today’s episode is presented by Vitaly Shevchenko and James Waterhouse with BBC Moscow producer Ben Tavener and Seoul correspondent Jean Mackenzie.
It was produced by Clare Williamson with Bella Saltiel and Sanjana Idnani. The technical producer was Mike Regaard. The series producer is Tim Walklate. The senior news editor is Sam Bonham.
Email Ukrainecast@bbc.co.uk with your questions and comments. You can also send us a message or voice note via WhatsApp, Signal or Telegram to +44 330 1239480
You can join the Ukrainecast discussion on Newscast’s Discord server here: tinyurl.com/ukrainecastdiscord
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