Putin on North Korea Visit: "We Will Firmly Resist Western Collective Desires"

<Rodong Sinmun> Contribution... Arrives in Pyongyang Tonight
First Visit in 24 Years, Showcases North Korea-Russia Close Ties
Signing of 'Comprehensive Strategic Partnership' Agreement

Russian President Vladimir Putin, ahead of his first visit to North Korea in 24 years, stated that he is "willing to firmly oppose the desires of the 'Western bloc' that hinder the establishment of a multipolar world order based on mutual respect for sovereignty and consideration of each other's interests." Since North Korea has aligned itself with Russia by supporting its invasion of Ukraine, this is interpreted as Russia's intention to side with North Korea against the West.

Vladimir Putin, President of Russia [Photo by Yonhap News]

President Putin expressed this stance in an article published on April 18 in the North Korean newspaper Rodong Sinmun. He said, "We will develop trade and mutual settlement systems free from Western control and jointly oppose unilateral illegal restrictive measures," adding, "Through our joint efforts, we will elevate bilateral cooperation to a higher level." Given that both North Korea and Russia face financial sanctions from the international community, this suggests the introduction of their own trade and settlement systems to break free from the US-centered international financial system and the influence of the dollar.

President Putin also emphasized, "In the confrontation with aggressive enemies and in the struggle to defend rights, we have supported the Democratic People's Republic of Korea and the heroic Korean people, and we will continue to support them unwaveringly." To this end, he mentioned plans to ▲ build an equal and indivisible security structure in Eurasia and ▲ develop humanitarian cooperation. These points are expected to be included in the 'Comprehensive Strategic Partnership' agreement to be signed by President Putin and Chairman Kim Jong-un. President Putin arrived in Pyongyang that evening, with key meetings and schedules planned for the 19th.