Moscow: The Russian government is in the process of coordinating a visit from North Korean leader Kim Jong-un, as reported by a Russian news outlet. However, discussions regarding the timing of this visit remain premature, as indicated by Russia's deputy foreign minister.
According to Yonhap News Agency, Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Andrey Rudenko confirmed that President Vladimir Putin extended an official invitation to Kim Jong-un for a visit to Russia. Rudenko expressed optimism that the timing, schedule, and arrangements for the visit would be managed through diplomatic channels. He highlighted that, while planning is underway, it is still too early to specify a definitive date for Kim's potential visit.
Kim Jong-un and Vladimir Putin last met in June of the previous year in Pyongyang, where they signed a mutual defense treaty, further solidifying their countries' collaboration in military and other sectors. During that meeting, Putin extended an invitation to Kim to visit Moscow.
Kim has made two visits to Russia, in 2019 and 2023, for discussions with Putin. Both visits occurred in Russia's eastern regions, closer to North Korea, likely due to security and logistical considerations. Notably, Kim did not attend Russia's Victory Day ceremony in Moscow on May 9, instead opting to visit the Russian Embassy in Pyongyang to commemorate the 80th anniversary of the Soviet victory over Nazi Germany.
There is speculation that Kim's next visit to Russia could occur in the coming months. Possible occasions include the first anniversary of the mutual defense treaty signing in June or during the annual Eastern Economic Forum in Vladivostok, scheduled for September, which is near the North Korean border.
Since the signing of the defense treaty, North Korea has contributed thousands of troops to support Russia in its conflict with Ukraine. In exchange, Russia has provided North Korea with defense and arms technologies, economic incentives, and other benefits.