In a rare visit that signals a deepening alignment between Russia and North Korea, Russian President Vladimir Putin arrived in the North Korean capital of Pyongyang on Wednesday morning. Video footage showed North Korean leader Kim Jong Un personally greeting Putin at the plane ramp as he landed. The two leaders engaged in animated discussions before continuing their journey to the Kumsusan State Guest House.

According to North Korean state media KCNA, Putin and Kim had a friendly chat after arriving at the guesthouse. The streets of Pyongyang were adorned with Russian flags and posters of Putin, highlighting the significance of this visit. This marks Putin's first trip to North Korea since 2000 and is a significant milestone for Kim, who has not hosted another world leader in his politically isolated country since the Covid-19 pandemic.

The visit is expected to solidify the growing partnership between Russia and North Korea, driven by shared animosity toward the West and Moscow's alleged need for weapons to sustain its war in Ukraine. The United States and other countries have expressed concerns about the deepening relationship between the two powers, including allegations of substantial military aid from North Korea to Russia.

During Putin's visit, both leaders plan to sign a new strategic partnership that aims to ensure greater stability in Northeast Asia. The agreement will replace previous documents signed in 1961, 2000, and 2001.

Ahead of Putin's visit, satellite imagery revealed preparations for a large parade in Pyongyang's central square. This visit comes at a time of heightened tensions on the Korean peninsula, with recent incidents of North Korean soldiers briefly crossing into South Korea's territory in the Demilitarized Zone.

Following his visit to North Korea, Putin is scheduled to travel to Hanoi, Vietnam, to emphasize the ties between Russia and the Communist-governed country. The trip is seen as a move to counterbalance Western influence in the region.

The international community will be closely monitoring Putin's visit to North Korea, as it may further impact the dynamics of the ongoing conflicts in Ukraine and on the Korean peninsula.