North Korean Leader Kim Jong Un Pledges Support to Vladimir Putin at Beijing Meeting

Strategic Insights -

North Korean leader Kim Jong Un has promised to "do everything possible to assist" Russian President Vladimir Putin, after the two leaders met in Beijing on Wednesday. The meeting, which took place on the sidelines of a military parade marking the 80th anniversary of China's defeat of imperial Japan, showed deepening ties among America's adversaries. Kim, who has been one of Russia's most visible backers in its war against Ukraine, pledged his full support to Putin, citing it as his "fraternal obligation" to help Moscow.

Key Takeaways:

  • Kim Jong Un has pledged to support Vladimir Putin, promising to "do everything possible to assist" Russia.
  • The meeting between Kim, Putin, and Chinese leader Xi Jinping marked a significant propaganda victory for the three leaders, with Putin positioned as kind of second-in-command to Xi.
  • North Korea has sent around 15,000 soldiers to Russia since last year, with 2,000 estimated to be killed, and has provided Moscow with ballistic missiles and artillery to support its war against Ukraine.
  • Kim's main interest in meeting with Putin is finding out how the two nations can continue their military partnership, which has made North Korea relevant globally due to its supply of weapons and troops to support Putin.
  • North Korea is likely to rely on China for investment and economic support, as Russia is not its biggest trading partner.
  • The meeting suggests the failure of one of Donald Trump's policy priorities: drawing Russia away from China's orbit.

Statistics:

  • 15,000: Estimated number of North Korean soldiers sent to Russia since last year.
  • 2,000: Estimated number of North Korean soldiers killed in Russia.
  • 2022: Year in which North Korea began providing Moscow with ballistic missiles and artillery to support its war against Ukraine.
  • 80: Anniversary of China's victory over imperial Japan, commemorated in the Beijing parade.

Sources:

  • "Byline: Francesca Ebel" (article)
  • Truth Social (mentioned as a platform where President Donald Trump posted about the meeting)
  • Carnegie Russia Eurasia Center (mention of Alexander Gabuev as director)
  • Stimson Center (mention of Rachel Minyoung Lee as a North Korea expert)