Kim, in Russia, invites Putin to North Korea - KCNA

Kim was briefed on technical details about Russian space vehicles during his visit to a cosmodrome, but there was no mention of any arms supplies, trade of weapons or technical assistance.

Russia's President Vladimir Putin waves as he meets with North Korean leader Kim Jong Un (not pictured) in Russia, September 13, 2023 (photo credit: KCNA VIA REUTERS)
Russia's President Vladimir Putin waves as he meets with North Korean leader Kim Jong Un (not pictured) in Russia, September 13, 2023
(photo credit: KCNA VIA REUTERS)

North Korean leader Kim Jong Un invited Russian President Vladimir Putin to his country during their talks in Russia on Wednesday, Pyongyang's state media KCNA reported on Thursday, adding Putin accepted the invitation.

Kim told Putin the meeting in Russia's Far East brought bilateral ties to a new level, and expressed his willingness to foster stable, future-oriented relations for the next 100 years, KCNA said.

Both sides agreed to further strengthen strategic and tactical cooperation in the face of the "military threats, provocations and tyranny of imperialists," it said.

Kim was briefed on technical details about Russian space vehicles during his visit to a cosmodrome, but there was no mention of any arms supplies, trade of weapons or technical assistance over weapons programs.

Meeting raises international concern

U.S. and South Korean officials have expressed concern that Kim could provide weapons and ammunition to Russia, which has expended vast stocks in more than 18 months of war in Ukraine. Moscow and Pyongyang have denied such intentions.

 North Korean leader Kim Jong Un meets with Russia's President Vladimir Putin (not pictured) in Russia, September 13, 2023 (credit: KOREAN CENTRAL NEWS AGENCY KCNA VIA REUTERS)
North Korean leader Kim Jong Un meets with Russia's President Vladimir Putin (not pictured) in Russia, September 13, 2023 (credit: KOREAN CENTRAL NEWS AGENCY KCNA VIA REUTERS)

On Wednesday, Putin gave numerous hints that military cooperation was discussed but disclosed few details. Defense Minister Sergei Shoigu attended the talks. The Kremlin said sensitive discussions between neighbors were a private matter.