Russian President Vladimir Putin is reportedly set to visit Pyongyang this week, following North Korean leader Kim Jong-un’s visit to Moscow last September. Speculation suggests Putin may embark on a two-day visit starting Tuesday, although both Moscow and Pyongyang have yet to confirm.
If the visit materializes, it will mark Putin’s first trip to Pyongyang in 24 years, with his last visit in 2000 to meet Kim Jong-il, father of the current leader. The visit may coincide with a meeting of senior Chinese and South Korean officials in Seoul.
In recent months, Russia and North Korea have bolstered their ties, raising concerns among the US and its allies who accuse Pyongyang of aiding Moscow in its conflict against Ukraine.