Russian President Vladimir Putin made a historic visit to Pyongyang, North Korea, marking the first visit by a Russian leader in over two decades. The visit is expected to strengthen the political ties between the two former Soviet-governed states.
In an op-ed published in North Korean state newspapers, Putin highlighted the historical and geopolitical connections between Russia and North Korea. He emphasized Russia's support for North Korea's independence and development, dating back to the formation of the Democratic People's Republic of Korea in 1948 with influence from Soviet dictator Josef Stalin.