According to the Kremlin, Russian President Vladimir Putin and North Korean leader Kim Jong Un exchanged rifles as gifts following a high-profile summit in Russia’s Far East. Putin, known for seeking closer ties with other assertive leaders marginalized by the West, met with Kim amidst speculation of potential arms agreements.
Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov informed reporters that Putin presented Kim with a high-quality rifle from Russian production, and in return, received a rifle made in North Korea. Additionally, Putin gifted Kim “a glove from a space suit that has been in space several times,” while expressing gratitude for an invitation to visit North Korea.
Peskov mentioned that Kim’s visit to Russia would extend for “a few more days,” as the North Korean leader arrived on Tuesday.
The amicable relationship between the two leaders is occurring against the backdrop of Russia’s increasing isolation from the West and some of its longstanding partners due to its extensive military operation in Ukraine. U.S. officials and experts have suggested that Russia might be interested in procuring North Korean ammunition for use in Ukraine—a move that the White House cautioned would lead to repercussions.