Russia will help North Korea in space exploration and rocket construction, says Putin

Today, North Korea's leader Kim Jong Un and Russian President Vladimir Putin met at the remote Vostochny Cosmodrome in Russia's Far East. The meeting, set against the backdrop of Russia's invasion of Ukraine and North Korea's persistent missile tests, has sparked intrigue and raised eyebrows on the global stage. The leaders commenced their encounter with an inspection of a Soyuz-2 space rocket launch facility, signaling a potential avenue for cooperation between the two nations in the realm of space exploration.

Putin emphasized North Korea's interest in rocket construction and space technologies as the driving force behind their visit to the cosmodrome, as per a report from Sputnik.  "The North Korean leadership is interested in rocket construction, they are also trying to develop space technologies," the Russian President said.

Glad to see you, says Putin to Kim Jong Un

"I am very glad to see and welcome you again in Russia. This time, as we agreed, at our cosmodrome, the Vostochny cosmodrome. We are proud of how this industry is developing in our country," Putin said after the inspection of the launch complex. "Thank you for inviting us, despite your tight schedule," Kim said to Putin. 

Regarding the prospect of collaboration in military and technological spheres, Putin underscored that there was no rush to reach conclusions. "They will discuss all issues in no particular hurry," he stated, citing the time at their disposal. Kim Jong Un's arrival in Russia was equally notable, as he made the journey in his bullet-proof train. The North Korean leader's visit comes as North Korea reopens its diplomatic engagements following a hiatus caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. His last high-profile meeting was with former US President Donald Trump in 2019.

However, the meeting has elicited concerns in the United States, primarily related to potential violations of international sanctions and the possibility of weapons deals between Russia and North Korea. Russia has shown interest in North Korea's arsenal of artillery shells, while North Korea seeks assistance in modernizing its aging military equipment, particularly for its air force and navy. As the world watches this unconventional encounter between two leaders with a history of defying international norms, the outcome and implications of their discussions remain a subject of keen interest and speculation on the global stage.