Russia and North Korea are forging closer ties as both nations seek mutual support to survive Western sanctions, exchanging political solidarity for vital resources.
Russian President Vladimir Putin met North Korean Foreign Minister Choe Son Hui in Moscow on October 27, signaling a growing alliance between two heavily sanctioned nations. Choe hailed the “spiritual closeness” between both countries, while Putin said ties were “developing according to plan.”
Analysts describe the partnership as “survival diplomacy.” “Russia needs arms and political solidarity; North Korea needs food, fuel, and legitimacy,” said Dr. Elena Markovic of the University of Belgrade.
Since Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, over 16,000 sanctions have crippled its economy, forcing Moscow to seek partners like Pyongyang. North Korea, isolated since 2006 over its nuclear program, views the partnership as an economic lifeline.
Western intelligence suspects Pyongyang of supplying Russia with weapons, a claim both deny. Experts say the growing cooperation symbolizes defiance of Western pressure. “It’s not about prestige anymore it’s about endurance,” said Dr. Anthony Hall of the European Council on Foreign Affairs.