Russian President Vladimir Putin and North Korean leader Kim Jong Un signed a strategic partnership agreement, strengthening defense, political, trade, and cultural ties, as well as cooperation on military technology. Putin's visit to North Korea was followed by a trip to Vietnam, where he signed numerous agreements with President To Lam to enhance cooperation in education, science, technology, and natural gas exploration. These moves are part of Putin's strategy to bolster ties in Asia amidst growing international isolation due to the war in Ukraine. During his visit to Vietnam, Putin emphasized the development of a 'reliable security architecture' in the Asia-Pacific region and received a warm welcome, symbolizing Russia's pivot to the East. The US and its allies criticized these visits, arguing that Putin should not be given a platform to promote Russia's war in Ukraine. Additionally, a viral video showed a light-hearted moment between Putin and Kim Jong Un, highlighting their personal rapport.