Russia strengthens North Korea ties with defence minister visit

Russia’s defence minister flew to North Korea today on a high-profile visit aimed at boosting military co-operation between the two countries.

Sergei Shoigu will attend a military parade in Pyongyang on Thursday to commemorate the 70th anniversary of the signing of the armistice that ended the Korean War. The date is celebrated as Victory Day in North Korea. A delegation from China will be led by Li Hongzhong, a member of the Chinese politburo.

Shoigu’s visit, which was not announced in advance, is taking place seven months after the United States accused Pyongyang of providing the Wagner group of Russian mercenaries with missiles and artillery shells, a move that would be in violation of United Nations sanctions. Both North Korea and Russia denied the claim.