North Korean leader Kim Jong Un is set to meet with Russian President Vladimir Putin, marking his first foreign leader meeting since North Korea’s border closure in January 2020. The primary focus of the meeting is expected to be Russia’s interest in acquiring ammunition to replenish its war reserves depleted during the Ukraine conflict. In return, North Korea may seek food, energy, and advanced weapons technology transfers. Russian Defense Minister Sergei Shoigu had previously visited Pyongyang, requesting ammunition from North Korea and discussing potential military exercises. The extent of military cooperation between the two nations remains uncertain, but warming relations could raise concerns for the U.S. and South Korea as both countries face their respective challenges with Russia and North Korea.
