PYONGYANG, NORTH KOREA April 26, 2026 – North Korean leader Kim Jong Un met with Russian Defense Minister Andrey Belousov today in Pyongyang for talks focused on strengthening military cooperation between the two nations.
According to Russia’s Defense Ministry and state media reports, Belousov, who arrived in the North Korean capital on a working visit, held discussions with Kim Jong Un and senior military officials. The meeting included a warm handshake and roundtable talks, as captured in video footage shared widely on social media.
Belousov stated that Moscow and Pyongyang have agreed to place their military cooperation on a “stable, long-term footing.” He added that Russia is prepared to sign a comprehensive plan for Russian-Korean military cooperation covering the period 2027–2031 later this year.
“We have reached an agreement with the DPRK Defense Ministry to place our military cooperation on a sustainable, long-term footing,” Belousov said during the talks. He described current Russian-North Korean interstate relations as being at an “unprecedentedly high level” and expressed gratitude for the warm welcome extended to the Russian delegation.
The visit follows closely on the heels of another high-level Russian delegation led by State Duma Speaker Vyacheslav Volodin, who also met Kim Jong Un in recent days. Belousov’s trip includes participation in ceremonial and commemorative events alongside talks with North Korean Defense Minister No Kwang Chol.
The deepening defense ties come amid ongoing geopolitical tensions, with both countries facing Western sanctions. Observers note the partnership has grown significantly in recent years, including reported arms exchanges and North Korean troop involvement in Russia’s military operations.
No further details on specific agreements were immediately released, but the meeting underscores the continued alignment between Moscow and Pyongyang in the face of international pressure.
Life News Agency will continue to monitor developments from this high-level engagement.
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