Kim's visit to Russia could occur within the current month: Report

WASHINGTON: In a potential development that has drawn global attention, North Korean leader Kim Jong Un is reportedly considering a visit to Russia for a meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin. This news comes at a time when Russia is actively seeking to procure military equipment for its ongoing conflict in Ukraine. An American official, speaking on condition of anonymity, disclosed this information on Monday.

The United States anticipates that Kim's visit to Russia could occur within the current month, although specific details regarding the meeting's location and timing remain uncertain. However, it is speculated that the port city of Vladivostok, situated on the Pacific Ocean and relatively distant from North Korea, might serve as a feasible venue.

Adrienne Watson, spokeswoman for the National Security Council, highlighted recent efforts by Russian Defense Minister Sergei Shoigu, who visited North Korea last month with the aim of persuading the nation to provide ammunition to Russia. Watson remarked, "We have received information that Kim Jong Un may continue these discussions, which will include leadership-level political participation in Russia."

In response to these developments, the United States has called on North Korea to halt its arms negotiations with Russia and adhere to its public commitment not to supply or sell arms to Russia.

Shoigu has proposed the idea of conducting joint military exercises between the two countries. The New York Times was the first to report on the possibility of a meeting between Kim Jong Un and President Putin in Russia this month.