Vladimir Putin, Kim Jong and the future of Russia-North Korea relations

On September 13, North Korean Leader Kim Jong met with Russian President Vladmir Putin at the Vostochny Cosmodrome, Russia’s most advanced space launch site. The meeting sparked concern in the West that Kim could supply Russia with weapons and munitions for its war in Ukraine and speculation about what North Korea would receive in return.

In this episode, Ken Gause and Paul Schwartz discuss the significance of the meeting and its implications for US policy makers.

Ken Gause is an expert on the North Korean leadership and political system. He has written several books on North Korea, focusing on its politics, military apparatus, and internal security system, including “North Korean House of Cards.”

Paul Schwartz is a Research Scientist with CNA’s Russia Studies Program.

 Further Reading

A War of Attrition: Assessing the Impact of Equipment Shortages on Russian Military Operations in Ukraine