President Vladimir Putin announced on Wednesday that Russia is willing to assist North Korea in building satellites. During a press conference, when asked about discussions on weapons supplies, Putin stated that he and North Korean leader Kim Jong Un would address all issues.
Putin’s response came after reporters questioned whether Russia would aid Kim in satellite development. He emphasized that Kim has shown a keen interest in rocket engineering and space exploration. To showcase Russia’s capabilities, Putin personally gave Kim a tour of the Vostochny Cosmodrome, the country’s state-of-the-art space rocket launch site located near the Chinese border.
Kim arrived at the Vostochny Cosmodrome via train after crossing into Russia earlier in the week. Putin warmly greeted him and spent around 40 seconds shaking his hand, expressing his pleasure at having him there. He also extended congratulations to Kim on the occasion of several North Korean anniversaries, including the 75th anniversary of the establishment of North Korea in 1948.
As the tour continued, Kim took the opportunity to ask Putin numerous detailed questions. Russian media reported that Putin showed Kim the facility where the Angara rocket, Russia’s latest space launch vehicle, is assembled. The Angara rocket, which stands at 42.7 meters tall, is designed for launching objects into low Earth orbit.
While the United States has accused North Korea of supplying arms to Russia, it remains unclear if any delivery has taken place. Both Russia and North Korea have denied these allegations but expressed their commitment to strengthening defense cooperation. When asked if weapons supplies would be discussed, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov replied that neighboring countries engage in confidential cooperation in sensitive areas, emphasizing their natural relationship as neighbors.
The meeting between Putin and Kim showcases Russia’s willingness to collaborate with North Korea in the field of satellite and rocket technology. By extending assistance and opening channels of communication, both nations strive to deepen their relations in various strategic areas.