During the 70th anniversary of the armistice that ended the 1950-53 Korean War, North Korean leader Kim Jong Un engaged in talks with Russian Defence Minister Sergei Shoigu. To discuss military matters and regional security, according to state media reports.
The meeting took place in the capital city of Pyongyang on Wednesday. Kim and Shoigu reached a consensus on “matters of mutual concern in the field of national defence and security and on the regional and international security environment,” as reported by the North’s official Korean Central News Agency (KCNA). The specifics of the military issues discussed were not disclosed in the report.
During the meeting, Minister Shoigu delivered a “warm and good letter” from Russian President Vladimir Putin to Kim Jong Un. Further underscoring the strengthening ties between North Korea and Russia.
Unveiling New Surveillance and Attack Drones
In a notable gesture of diplomatic openness amid the pandemic, North Korea extended invitations to delegations from Russia and China to participate in events commemorating the armistice signed on July 27, 1953. Although the truce technically left the Korean Peninsula in a state of war. North Korea views it as a victory in the “Grand Fatherland Liberation War.”
As part of the discussions, Kim Jong Un personally guided Sergei Shoigu through an arms exhibition. Showcasing some of North Korea’s latest weaponry. Notably, the displayed weapons included intercontinental ballistic missiles. The North has conducted flight tests in recent years. Emphasising its pursuit of a formidable arsenal capable of posing a credible threat to the continental US. The exhibition also revealed new surveillance and attack drones, previously undisclosed by the North.
The meeting between Kim Jong Un and the Russian Defence Minister signifies a potential deepening of military cooperation between North Korea and Russia. Raising concerns among the international community about regional security implications. As the situation continues to be closely monitored, world leaders call for peaceful diplomatic efforts to ensure stability in the region.