Russia's Foreign Minister Lavrov praises strengthened relations during his visit to North Korea

Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov has expressed Moscow's full support for North Korean leader Kim Jong Un during his official trip to North Korea. Lavrov also thanked the country for its support in Ukraine. This visit lays the groundwork for a potential visit to North Korea by President Vladimir Putin. The United States recently accused North Korea of sending large arms shipments to Russia for use in Ukraine. Lavrov's visit follows Kim's visit to Russia in September, where they discussed possibilities for military cooperation. In July, Russia's defense minister visited North Korea and was shown their latest weapons. During an official reception, Lavrov pledged Moscow's complete support for Kim and accused the US and its allies of waging a war against Russia. Lavrov's trip aims to implement the arrangements made during the meeting between Putin and Kim. However, it is unclear if Lavrov will meet with Kim during this trip. The US has warned against Moscow buying weapons from Pyongyang for its conflict in Ukraine, as it would violate UN resolutions. Satellite images have shown the transfer of ammunition and artillery from North Korea to a Russian military warehouse near the Ukrainian border. Russia has an interest in North Korean arms due to their compatibility with Russian weapon systems. Meanwhile, North Korea, facing international sanctions and the impact of the pandemic, is in dire economic conditions and lacks essential resources. Despite this, some analysts believe that Kim may have requested humanitarian aid during the alleged arms deal with Russia. Both North Korea and Russia have mutually expressed their commitment to deepening ties as both countries face increased isolation on the global stage.