In a significant gesture reflecting the strengthening ties between Moscow and Pyongyang, Russian President Vladimir Putin has donated over 70 animals to North Korea’s primary zoo. The donation includes a lion and two brown bears, highlighting the growing diplomatic relationship between the two nations.
On Wednesday, Alexander Kozlov, the environment minister of Russia, announced via his office’s official Telegram channel that a cargo plane had transported animals to the capital of North Korea.
According to Kozlov’s office, the recent shipment of animals from Moscow comprised two yaks, five cockatoos, dozens of pheasants, and mandarin ducks.
The present arrives just weeks following the announcement by the United States and South Korea that North Korea had dispatched thousands of troops to support Russia in its conflict in Ukraine.
The Russian environment minister made a courtesy visit to Kim during his time in Pyongyang.
Russia’s decision to send animals to North Korea marks a continuation of a trend observed in recent history.
In a notable diplomatic gesture earlier this year, Russian President Vladimir Putin presented North Korean leader Kim Jong Un with 24 pure-bred horses. This gift is believed to be a token of gratitude for the artillery shells supplied by North Korea.
In recent months, Putin and Kim have bolstered their alliance amid ongoing sanctions imposed by Western nations on both countries.
The Russian president is seeking backing for his ongoing conflict in Ukraine, while North Korea is looking to leverage Russia’s advancements in space technology to enhance its missile capabilities.
In June, the growing partnership between Russia and North Korea became evident as President Putin visited the North and formalised an agreement with Kim Jong-un to safeguard their nations against perceived “aggression”.
During the visit, Putin presented Kim with a Russian-made Aurus limousine, a tea set, and artwork.
Kim has garnered attention for her passion for automobiles, having been spotted in a Maybach limousine, multiple Mercedes models, a Rolls-Royce Phantom, and a Lexus sports utility vehicle.
In February, Putin presented Kim with an Aurus, following Kim’s visit to the Vostochny space centre in Russia’s Far East five months earlier.
