Putin and Kim vow to work together against sanctions before Pyongyang summit

Russian President Vladimir Putin is visiting North Korea to meet with Kim Jong-un, the North Korean dictator, in an effort to strengthen ties and secure more arms for Russia's war in Ukraine. The meeting is expected to result in a new comprehensive strategic partnership agreement between the two countries. Putin's visit coincides with high tensions on the Korean peninsula, with South Korea firing warning shots at North Korean soldiers who crossed the military demarcation line. The United States has expressed concern about the visit, citing security implications for South Korea and Ukraine. Despite international criticism, Putin thanked North Korea for its support in the war in Ukraine and emphasized the importance of their cooperation in overcoming sanctions imposed by the West. The trip aims to elevate ties between Russia and North Korea to a higher level and develop equal cooperation between the two allies. Both countries are under UN sanctions, with North Korea facing sanctions since 2006 over its nuclear and ballistic missile programs, and Russia facing sanctions over the invasion of Ukraine. The visit is seen as a move by Putin to strengthen his alliances and counter Western isolation following the invasion of Ukraine.