Kim Jong-un and Vladimir Putin appreciate a drive in a Russian-built limousine during Kim's trip to Russia.
In videos broadcasted by the North Korean state media agency, KCNA, on a stateday, the two authoritarian rulers are seen enjoying each other's company as they ride in a lavish Aurus vehicle. The staged show of camaraderie pictures Putin operating the wheel initially, with Kim sitting shotgun, followed by a switch of positions.
These visuals aim to emphasize the close bond between the leaders, who claim to have strengthened ties to an unprecedented degree during Putin's uncommon visit to the secretive nation this week.
Yesterday, Putin bestowed an Aurus vehicle upon Kim, following a mutual exchange of presents, as per Russian news outlets – the second time Putin has gifted this car model to his counterpart. According to Putin's advisor, Yuri Ushakov, Putin also offered Kim a tea set.
KCNA released footage showing Putin receiving in return a pair of native Pungsan hunting dogs – the exact breed Kim had given to ex-South Korean President Moon Jae-in in 2018 during a significant advancement in relations between the two countries.
Putin's visit to North Korea has been a public demonstration of the powerful relations between Russia and North Korea, whose bond has intensified in response to mutual hostility toward the West.
Putin arrived in North Korea in the wee hours of the local time on Wednesday, marking exactly 24 years since his last visit to Pyongyang, amid global fears about the two countries' military collaboration.
During the visit, the leaders announced a new strategic partnership instigated by Moscow's need for weapons in its conflict in Ukraine.
In anticipation of their talks, Kim expressed his "complete backing and solidarity with the Russian government, military, and people," specifically mentioning Moscow's war in Ukraine as an endeavor to safeguard its own sovereignty, safety, and territorial stability.
Putin, on the other hand, lauded the nations' relationship as built on "equality and mutual respect."
The intensifying relationship has raised worries in Seoul and Washington, not only pertaining to North Korea's weapon sales to Russia but also the prospect of Russia transferring its advanced military technology to support Pyongyang's heavily sanctioned weapons program.
Following his sojourn in North Korea, Putin touched down in the Vietnamese capital of Hanoi as he persists in his endeavors to bolster economic ties with friendly nations amid Western ostracization.
CNN's Simone McCarthy and Anna Chernova provided reporting for this article.
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Despite the ongoing tensions between the West and both nations, Putin's visit to North Korea has strengthened the alliance between Russia and Europe's neighbor, further expanding Russia's influence within Europe's geopolitical sphere.
Moreover, the exchange of gifts during Putin's visit, including the presentation of an Aurus vehicle, highlights the growing friendship between Russia and other European nations, extending beyond the continent of Europe.
