Russian President Vladimir Putin's influence in Europe is growing, particularly among far-right parties in the European Parliament. These parties have shown increasing support for Russia's stance on the Ukraine war, often opposing military aid to Ukraine and sanctions on Russia. This trend is exemplified by the Alternative for Germany (AfD) party, which refused to attend a speech by Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky in the German Parliament.
The recent European Parliament elections have resulted in a significant increase in seats for far-right groups such as the European Conservatives and Reformists and Identity and Democracy. These groups now control 131 out of 720 seats, further strengthening the far-right's parliamentary power. This development is likely to impact Europe's position on the Ukraine war.
Putin has skillfully influenced right-wing extremist groups, using covert propaganda operations to promote pro-Kremlin narratives. This has led to increased sympathy for Russia among right-wing parties in various European countries, including Slovakia, Hungary, Romania, Bulgaria, and France. Leaders of these parties, such as Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban, openly oppose sanctions on Russia.
The growing support for Russia among European far-right parties is advantageous for Putin, as it may lead to a less unified NATO and hinder efforts to increase arms supplies to Ukraine. The far-right's alignment with Putin's conservative values and opposition to the liberal West further solidifies this support.
In a related development, Putin is set to visit North Korea to strengthen the strategic partnership between the two countries. North Korea has provided firm support for Russia's military operation in Ukraine, and the two nations have grown closer since Russia's invasion of Ukraine in 2022. This alliance is perceived as a threat by the West, which accuses North Korea of supplying munitions to Russia in exchange for technological, diplomatic, and food assistance.
The deepening relationship between Russia and North Korea is concerning for the international community. NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg and White House National Security Council spokesman John Kirby have expressed worries about the impact on Ukrainian security and the potential repercussions for the Korean peninsula. Ukrainian Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba has called for increased arms deliveries to Kyiv in response to the 'virile friendship' between Putin and Kim Jong Un.
- President Putin's visit to North Korea is his second trip to the country, with the last visit occurring nearly a quarter of a century ago. This visit comes nine months after Kim Jong Un visited the Russian Far East, where both leaders praised each other without officially concluding any agreements.
- Incidents on the inter-Korean border have also heightened tensions. South Korean military reported that several dozen North Korean soldiers crossed the military demarcation line before retreating under warning fire. This is the second such incursion in less than two weeks.
- South Korea is closely monitoring preparations for Putin's visit, given its significant military aid to Ukraine and participation in Western sanctions against Moscow. The visit underscores the growing alliance between Russia and North Korea, which poses a challenge to the West's efforts to counter Russian aggression.
