Kim Jong Un Welcomes Vladimir Putin with Late-Night Red Carpet Reception in North Korea

 In a historic visit, Russian President Vladimir Putin was greeted by North Korean leader Kim Jong Un upon his arrival in North Korea. This marks Putin's first visit to the North Korean capital in 24 years. The visit included official ceremonies, one-on-one meetings, and joint document signings.

Arriving in the early hours, Putin was met by Kim on the tarmac with a warm embrace on the red carpet. The two leaders shook hands, embraced, and engaged in conversation next to Putin's plane before traveling together in the same limousine to the Kumsusan State Guest House.

This visit signifies a potential shift in Russia-North Korea relations as both nations face international isolation. Russia is leveraging its relationship with North Korea to challenge Washington, while North Korea, under heavy sanctions, is receiving political backing and promises of economic support and trade from Moscow. Putin's visit is expected to further solidify these ties.

The United States has expressed serious concerns about the growing cooperation between Russia and North Korea. White House Press Secretary Jean-Pierre highlighted that this partnership poses a threat to peace and stability on the Korean Peninsula.

"Deepening cooperation between Russia and the DPRK is a trend that should be of great concern to anyone interested in maintaining peace and stability in the Korean Peninsula, upholding the global non-proliferation regime, abiding by the UN Security Council resolutions, and supporting the people of Ukraine as they defend their freedom," Jean-Pierre stated.

The Biden administration has long warned that North Korean leader Kim Jong Un is supplying weapons to Russia for its war in Ukraine.

"We don't believe any country should give Mr. Putin a platform to promote the war of aggression that we're currently seeing in Ukraine," Jean-Pierre added.