North Korean leader Kim Jong Un receives a luxury car gift from Putin.
Kim Jong Un has reportedly received a luxury car as a “gift for his personal use” from Russian President Vladimir Putin, sparking concerns over potential breaches of United Nations sanctions.
The exchange, disclosed by official media sources on Tuesday, underscores the deepening ties between the two nations following a meeting between Kim and Putin last September, during which they pledged to enhance bilateral exchanges across various sectors.
Despite facing international isolation and grappling with issues such as Russia‘s involvement in the conflict in Ukraine and North Korea’s nuclear ambitions, the partnership between the two countries appears undeterred.
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The Russian-made car, identified as an Aurus Senat, was reportedly delivered to Kim’s top aides by Russian officials on February 18, as per the Korean Central News Agency (KCNA).
Expressions of gratitude were conveyed from Kim’s sister to Putin, underscoring the perceived warmth in the personal relations between the leaders.
Meanwhile, the South Korean foreign ministry has expressed vigilance over Russia’s collaboration with North Korea and has urged both nations to comply with United Nations Security Council resolutions.
The Aurus Senat, touted as Russia’s premier full-size luxury sedan and famously known as Putin’s presidential vehicle, was the vehicle presented to Kim.
Kim, a known automobile enthusiast, had previously visited Russia’s space launch station and had the opportunity to sit in a similar car, courtesy of Putin.
Despite existing sanctions prohibiting the export of luxury goods, including high-end vehicles, to North Korea under UNSC resolutions, Kim is believed to possess a substantial collection of luxury foreign cars, possibly smuggled into the country.
As North Korean leader Kim Jong Un receives luxury car gift from Putin, this latest acquisition has reignited concerns, especially in light of prior allegations of North Korea supplying weapons to Russia for use in the Ukraine conflict, though the Kremlin has remained silent on these accusations.
North Korea has consistently denied such allegations, which would constitute a violation of UN sanctions.
