Kim Jong-un Inspects Riding the 'Russian Rolls-Royce' Gifted by Putin

Kim Yo-jong "Thanks to Moscow"

North Korean State Affairs Commission Chairman Kim Jong Un was seen using a special limousine gifted by Russian President Vladimir Putin on the 16th. The import of luxury vehicles into North Korea violates the UN Security Council's sanctions resolutions against North Korea.

On the same day in the afternoon, Korean Central TV reported on Kim's visit to the completion and operation ceremony of the Kangdong General Greenhouse near Pyongyang the previous day, showing him traveling to the event venue in an "Aurus."

Earlier that morning, Kim Yo Jong, Deputy Director of the Workers' Party, stated in a statement released through Korean Central News Agency, "We are very pleased that the Supreme Leader is now using a special limousine sent as a gift by the head of state of Russia."

She added, "The special functions of the limousine are perfect and completely trustworthy," emphasizing that the use of this limousine "serves as a clear demonstration of the fully strengthened and developing DPRK-Russia friendship at a new higher level." She also expressed, "We once again sincerely send our gratitude to Moscow."

On May 18, President Putin gifted Kim the "Aurus," known as the "Russian Rolls-Royce." The gift of the car falls under luxury items prohibited from transfer to North Korea, violating Security Council sanctions. The direct or indirect supply, sale, or transfer of transportation means to North Korea has also been banned under Security Council Resolution 2397, adopted in December 2017.

[Image source=Yonhap News]