Russian President Vladimir Putin has embarked on a significant diplomatic tour, visiting North Korea and Vietnam. These visits come after his re-election in the spring of 2024, marking his fourth and fifth international trips post-re-election.
Putin’s visit to North Korea is his first since 2000 and aims to deepen cooperation with the isolated nation. Accompanied by a large delegation including top ministers and defense officials, Putin’s trip is expected to address strategic and military cooperation between the two countries amid ongoing Western sanctions.
The Russian leader’s visit has stirred significant reactions from Washington and its allies, particularly South Korea. Concerns revolve around potential military cooperation between Pyongyang and Moscow, including allegations that North Korea has supplied Russia with weapons for the Ukraine conflict.
In addition, Putin’s visit to Vietnam underscores Hanoi’s balanced foreign policy amidst global tensions. The dialogue is expected to cover various sectors such as trade, investment, technology, and energy, with particular focus on resolving issues related to US sanctions affecting financial transactions.
The United States has expressed sharp disapproval of Putin’s diplomatic engagements, particularly highlighting the risks of normalizing Russia's aggressive actions. The American stance underscores worries about an enhanced military partnership that could destabilize the region further.
Moreover, Putin has recently launched a significant reshuffle within the Russian Defense Ministry, introducing new deputy ministers, some of whom are his close relatives. This restructuring aims to increase transparency and control over military spending as Russia commits to a war economy in support of its efforts in Ukraine.
- During Putin’s visit to North Korea, the focus will be on military and strategic cooperation between the two nations. Talks are expected to cover secret arms deals and technological assistance, with North Korea allegedly supplying Russia with artillery and missiles.
- The diplomatic trip has heightened tensions in the Korean Peninsula, particularly between North and South Korea. Incidents at the demilitarized zone and military escalations have contributed to the strained relationship.
- In Vietnam, discussions will likely address sensitive topics, including arms sales and energy cooperation. Russian companies' operations in the South China Sea and the impact of US sanctions on financial transactions are key points of contention.
- Putin’s reshuffle in the Russian Defense Ministry involves appointing trusted allies and relatives to key positions. This move aims to bolster control over military expenditures and enhance arms production capabilities amidst ongoing conflict.
