Russian President Vladimir Putin is making a historic visit to North Korea to meet with leader Kim Jong Un. This meeting is seen as part of a “big agenda” that includes negotiations for a strategic partnership and bilateral agreements. The meeting will be closed and will take place during walks and tea sessions.
Putin’s visit to North Korea is part of his efforts to create an anti-U.S. coalition as Russia faces conflict with the United States and the West over Ukraine. He has been deepening relations with countries like North Korea, China, Iran, Cuba, and Venezuela to counter the U.S. This strategic move is aimed at slowing down and disrupting U.S. decision-making during times of crisis.
North Korea has been supporting Russia’s military operation in Ukraine by providing munitions. In return, Russia offers advanced weapons technology, including missiles, hypersonic weapons, counter-space weapons, and expertise in nuclear arms and cyberwarfare. This military-industrial cooperation between Russia and North Korea poses a strategic challenge to U.S. security and its allies.
Putin’s recent threats to arm U.S. adversaries with long-range weapons in response to U.S. support for Ukraine indicate the growing tensions between Russia and the West. He is concerned that an emboldened Ukraine could strike deep inside Russia, prompting a forceful response, possibly even involving nuclear weapons. This has raised fears of a large-scale conflict akin to World War III.
By strengthening alliances with countries like North Korea and conducting joint military drills, Russia is sending a signal to the U.S. that it has the capability to pose a threat to U.S. interests. Putin aims to deter the U.S. from intervening in conflicts within Russia’s perceived sphere of influence in Eurasia.
Putin’s editorial in a North Korean newspaper emphasized the need for Russia and North Korea to oppose the “collective West” and its allegedly neo-colonial agenda. While this partnership may not pose an immediate threat to U.S. security, it increases the risk of bold actions by Putin and Kim that go against U.S. interests.
As the anti-U.S. coalition led by Russia continues to strengthen, the risk of coordinated actions targeting the U.S. homeland during times of conflict rises. This evolving geopolitical landscape underscores the need for the U.S. to carefully monitor and address the growing challenges posed by these alliances.