On Wednesday, Kim Jong Un exhibited North Korea’s latest weaponry to Sergei Shoigu, Russia’s defense chief. The event took place as part of the celebrations for the 70th anniversary of the Korean War’s armistice in Pyongyang, which typically includes grand military parades. The Russian delegation, headed by Mr. Shoigu, was invited to the event, along with Chinese officials.
The showcased weapons featured the Hwasong intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM), which had a successful test in April. This ICBM is believed to be North Korea’s first to use solid propellants, allowing for faster launches compared to liquid-fueled ones. Additionally, two new drone designs were on display, with one resembling the primary offensive strike drone used by the US Air Force, as reported by NK News, a specialist site focusing on North Korea.
Amid accusations of Pyongyang supplying arms to Russia for use in the Ukraine war (denied by both parties), Mr. Kim engaged in discussions with Mr. Shoigu concerning matters of mutual interest in national defense and international security.
The visit of the Russian and Chinese delegations for North Korea’s Victory Day, marking the 1953 end of hostilities, is expected to conclude on Thursday with an extensive military parade. It’s important to note that the Korean War technically ended without a peace agreement, leaving the Koreas still technically at war.
The invitation to foreign guests for this parade is a notable event, as it is the first time Mr. Kim has done so since the Covid pandemic began. The last occasion of inviting foreign government delegates for a military parade was in February 2018.
During the visit, Mr. Shoigu had a friendly talk with Mr. Kim, presenting him with an autographed letter from Russian President Vladimir Putin. According to KCNA, Mr. Kim praised North Korea’s military as the most powerful in the world.
The Chinese delegation, led by politburo member Li Hongzhong, also handed a personal letter from Mr. Xi to Mr. Kim. During their meeting, Mr. Kim expressed gratitude for the support of the Chinese People’s Volunteers during the war, stating that the Korean people would never forget their contribution.
The participation of Chinese and Russian envoys in this year’s Victory Day parade has led some analysts to speculate about a possible loosening of Covid restrictions in North Korea. This development comes after state media showed images of North Koreans walking without masks, indicating a potential shift in the country’s Covid policies.
Notably, North Korea had severed all trade and diplomatic ties, including with its main economic and political partners, China and Russia, in early 2020.”
