The recent meeting between North Korean leader Kim Jong Un and Russian President Vladimir Putin has drawn international attention, igniting discussions about the historical relationship between these two nations. As the secretive leaders gather for their second meeting, it is worthwhile to delve into the intricate history of Russia and North Korea. From their collaboration in the Korean War to the shifting dynamics during the collapse of the Soviet Union, this article aims to provide a timeline of key events that have shaped their ties.
The Korean War and Soviet Support:
The Korean War, ignited by Kim Il Sung’s surprise attack on the South in 1950, witnessed the Soviet Union providing ammunition, warplanes, and pilots to aid communist North Korea’s invasion. Soviet support played a crucial role in the conflict, leading to years of Soviet sponsorship to support the North’s development.
Declining Relations and Soviet Dissolution:
During the mid-1950s to the 1960s, relations between Russia and North Korea faced ups and downs. Kim Il Sung’s violent purges of pro-Soviet and pro-Chinese factions strained the relationship, and Moscow gradually reduced its aid. As the rivalry between the Soviet Union and China intensified in the 1970s, North Korea pursued an “equidistance” policy, leveraging the hostility between the communist giants for its own gains.
The Collapse of the Soviet Union and Economic Hardship:
The dissolution of the Soviet Union in 1991 profoundly impacted North Korea, as it lost its main economic and security benefactor. Moscow’s shift towards reconciliation with South Korea and the expiration of its military alliance with the North left Pyongyang isolated. Along with subsequent borrowing and policy failures, North Korea faced a devastating famine in the 1990s, leading to mass starvation.
Efforts to Restore Relations:
In the early 2000s, Russian President Vladimir Putin sought to restore ties with North Korea. High-level meetings between Putin and Kim Jong Il, the second-generation North Korean leader, took place, signaling Russia’s intent to regain influence. However, Russia also supported United Nations Security Council sanctions against North Korea in response to its nuclear weapons and missile program.
Kim Jong Un’s Leadership and Diplomatic Endeavors:
Following his father’s death, Kim Jong Un took the reins in 2011. In an attempt to leverage his nuclear program for economic benefits, he initiated diplomatic efforts with Washington and Seoul. Kim Jong Un also sought to improve ties with traditional allies China and Russia to strengthen his bargaining power. However, despite a first summit with Putin in 2019, significant diplomatic breakthroughs remained elusive.
The Current Scenario:
Amidst Russia’s war on Ukraine, North Korea finds an opportunity to intensify its weapons tests. Pointing fingers at the United States, Pyongyang blames Western hegemony for the conflict. North Korea aligns with Russia and Syria by recognizing the independence of Moscow-backed separatist regions in eastern Ukraine. Russia and China withhold support for stronger sanctions against North Korea in response to its missile tests.
Expectations of the Recent Meeting:
Kim Jong Un’s visit to Russia in September 2023 comes amidst speculation that he will seek economic aid and military technology in exchange for munitions to fuel Russia’s war in Ukraine. Russian Defense Minister Sergei Shoigu’s rare visit to North Korea in July further underlines the importance of this meeting. The leaders’ discussions and potential agreements will likely influence the dynamics of the region.
The intricate history between Russia and North Korea is marked by numerous pivotal moments, ranging from their collaboration during the Korean War to the shifting dynamics during the collapse of the Soviet Union. As North Korea seeks support from Russia amidst geopolitical tensions, it is crucial to recognize the complex nature of their relationship. The outcomes of the recent meeting between Kim Jong Un and Vladimir Putin will undoubtedly shape the regional landscape and further impact global dynamics.
Market Capital Research 