Russian President Vladimir Putin gifted North Korean leader Kim Jong Un a Russian-made car, symbolizing their close relationship, according to North Korea’s state media. The specific type of vehicle and its method of delivery were not disclosed. However, the gift could potentially breach a U.N. resolution prohibiting luxury item exports to North Korea, aimed at pressuring the nation to denuclearize. Kim’s sister, Kim Yo Jong, accepted the gift on his behalf and conveyed his gratitude to Putin, emphasizing the special bond between the leaders.
North Korea and Russia have strengthened their cooperation since Kim’s visit to Russia in September for a summit with Putin. During the visit, Putin showcased his personal Anrus Senat limousine to Kim, further highlighting their rapport. The Anrus brand, the first Russian luxury car brand, has been utilized in the motorcades of top officials, including Putin, since 2018.
Kim Jong Un is known for possessing numerous foreign luxury cars, believed to have been acquired in violation of U.N. sanctions. During his Russia visit, Kim traveled in a Maybach limousine brought along in one of his special train carriages. Previous trips to Russia saw Kim utilizing various high-end vehicles, including Mercedes Maybach models and a black Mercedes limousine. These instances underscore the challenges of enforcing international sanctions of North Korea.
Despite voting in favor of the ban on luxury goods to North Korea, Russia maintains close ties with the nation, including through diplomatic visits and potential future meetings between Putin and Kim. The growing partnership between North Korea and Russia coincides with both countries facing tensions with the United States and its allies, particularly concerning North Korea’s nuclear program and Russia’s conflict with Ukraine.
The U.S., South Korea, and their allies accuse North Korea of providing conventional arms to Russia in exchange for advanced military technologies amid the conflict in Ukraine. Following a recent Russian visit, North Korean state media reported Putin’s expressed willingness to visit North Korea in the near future.
