Putin and Kim Sign Bilateral Defense Pact in Pyongyang

Russian President Vladimir Putin visited North Korea and signed a strategic pact in a two-hour one-on-one meeting with the Korean leader Kim Jong Un on Wednesday.

Key Quotes: Putin said the agreement encompasses “political, trade, investment, cultural spheres, and the security sphere as well” and called it a “truly a breakthrough document.” Ahead of the meeting, Kim voiced “full support and solidarity with the struggles of the Russian government, military, and the people,” specifically mentioning Russia’s efforts “to protect its own sovereignty, safety and territorial stability.”

For Context: The meeting marks the first time Putin has visited North Korea since 2004 and comes after Kim visited Moscow last year. Previously, the Kremlin has supported multiple United Nations sanctions on North Korea’s weapons program, though more recently, North Korea has been providing Russia with munitions for use in Ukraine.

How The Media Covered It: CNN (Lean Left bias) included ample context on the history of Russian-North Korean relations and noted that ahead of the talks Putin thanked North Korea for its “consistent and unwavering support.” Euronews (Center bias) noted previous U.S. concerns that Russia is violating UN sanctions by helping it with its nuclear program in exchange for military aid.