DPRK's Kim Jong-Un given drones as gifts upon departure from Russia

By Al Mayadeen English
Source: Agencies
17 Sep 2023 13:37

Ria Novosti agency released a video of Kim's departure and mentioned that a "departure ceremony" took place at the Artyom-Primorsky-1 station.

DPRK's Kim Jong Un is pictured receiving a gift from Russian Defense Minister Sergei Shoigu during a visit in Vladivostok, Sept. 16, 2023 (AP)

Russian news agencies reported on Sunday that DPRK leader Kim Jong Un departed from Russia aboard his armored train, concluding a six-day trip primarily centered on military discussions.

Kim's initial official overseas visit since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic has raised concerns in Western nations that Moscow and Pyongyang might disregard sanctions and engage in arms negotiations.

Ria Novosti agency released a video of Kim's departure and mentioned that a "departure ceremony" took place at the Artyom-Primorsky-1 station.

Additionally, TASS news agency reported that Kim's train was en route to a location approximately 250 kilometers (155 miles) from the border.

In the video, Kim can be seen bidding farewell from his train to a Russian delegation headed by Alexander Kozlov, the Minister of Natural Resources. As the train pulls away, the Russian tune "Farewell of Slavianka" is played.

Kim Jong Un concludes Russia trip, climbs aboard armored train back to North Korea pic.twitter.com/yQtOvwVXqM
— RT (@RT_com) September 17, 2023

Earlier on Sunday, TASS reported that Kim Jong Un had received several gifts from a regional governor, including five explosive drones, a reconnaissance drone called "Geran-25" with vertical takeoff, and a bulletproof vest. TASS used the official name of the country, referring to it as the "DPRK" instead of "North Korea."

According to TASS, the governor of the Primorye region, which shares borders with China and North Korea, also presented Kim Jong Un with a set of bulletproof gear and specialized clothing designed to avoid detection by thermal cameras.

On Saturday, he held a meeting with Russia's defense minister in Vladivostok, where he had the opportunity to examine advanced weaponry, including a hypersonic missile system.

Throughout Kim's visit through Russia's far eastern region, which commenced on Tuesday, there has been a notable emphasis on military-related matters.

This was evident in the composition of his entourage, which included military personnel, symbolic gestures such as an exchange of rifles with President Vladimir Putin, and a visit to a fighter jet factory in Komsomolsk-on-Amur.

There is speculation that Moscow may be interested in procuring DPRK ammunition for its ongoing conflict in Ukraine, while Pyongyang is seeking Russia's assistance in advancing its missile program, which has faced international condemnation.

It's important to note that the Kremlin has stated that no agreements have been or will be signed. On Sunday, Kim also met with DPRK students studying in Vladivostok.

DPRK news agency KCNA has characterized the atmosphere during Kim's visit as "enthusiastic and warm," and it has mentioned the emergence of a "new era of friendship, solidarity, and cooperation" between the DPRK and Russia.