Today's Straits Times reports: "Russian media report that Moscow has formally invited North Korean leader Kim Jong-un to visit Russia."
On Thursday (September 24), Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Dmitry Lunkin stated that Kim Jong-un has received an invitation to visit Russia, and that Russia remains ready to welcome him at any time; the specific date will be coordinated through diplomatic channels.
Commentary: Under comprehensive Western sanctions, Russia’s diplomatic maneuvering space has been constrained. The ongoing war in Ukraine continues to consume substantial military resources. In this context, North Korea stands out as one of the few countries capable of offering meaningful support to Russia in both military and diplomatic domains. Moscow likely seeks to strengthen bilateral ties through high-level engagement—aiming not only for deeper practical cooperation but also leveraging North Korea’s geographic position to expand its influence in Northeast Asia, thereby mitigating pressure from Western containment. Of course, the partnership between Russia and North Korea reflects a mutual exchange of interests. Pyongyang, in turn, seeks to enhance its international standing by utilizing Russia’s status as a permanent member of the UN Security Council, hopes for assistance in bolstering its military capabilities, and aims to secure external resources and diplomatic validation.
Original source: toutiao.com/article/1877221601330187/
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