Russian Foreign Minister Lavrov Strengthens Military Ties in North Korea Visit

Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov visited North Korea in July 2025 to strengthen the growing strategic and military cooperation between the two countries amid the ongoing Ukraine conflict. During the visit, Lavrov met with North Korean Foreign Minister Choe Son Hui in Wonsan, discussing the war in Ukraine and the situation on the Korean Peninsula. North Korea has deployed troops to support Russia in repelling Ukrainian forces, notably aiding in the Kursk region, and has committed to sending 6,000 military engineers to assist with reconstruction efforts. The two nations signed a mutual defense pact in 2024, deepening their alliance, with plans for further troop deployments and expanded military collaboration. Lavrov's visit also highlighted economic ties, including prospects for increased Russian tourism to North Korea via resumed direct trains and infrastructure projects like a bridge over the Tumen River. Following his North Korea visit, Lavrov was scheduled to attend the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation meeting in China, signaling continued regional diplomatic engagement.