Vladimir Putin gifts Kim Jong-un a luxury car

Vladimir Putin gifted Kim Jong-un a luxurious Russian Aurus limousine, prompted by Kim's admiration for the vehicle during a previous encounter. When Kim visited eastern Russia in September, Putin showcased one of his black armored limousines, which Kim enjoyed riding in at the Vostochny cosmodrome.

Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov confirmed that Kim expressed interest in the car during his visit to the cosmodrome, leading to the decision to present it as a gift. Peskov emphasized Russia's commitment to developing relations with neighboring countries, including North Korea.

The gift underscores Russia's bolstered ties with nations like North Korea and Iran amid tensions with the US over the Ukraine conflict. Although the US has accused North Korea of supplying Russia with weaponry used in Ukraine, both Moscow and Pyongyang deny these allegations and have pledged to strengthen military cooperation.

The Russian-made limousine was delivered to Kim's aides by the Russian delegation. Kim's sister conveyed his gratitude to Putin, emphasizing the special relationship between the two leaders.

South Korea's foreign ministry expressed concern over Russia-North Korea cooperation and urged compliance with UN Security Council resolutions, which prohibit the export of luxury vehicles to North Korea.

The Aurus limousine, Russia's premier luxury sedan, also serves as Putin's presidential car. Kim, known for his interest in automobiles, arrived at the Vostochny cosmodrome in a Maybach limousine. Despite UN sanctions banning luxury goods exports to North Korea, Kim reportedly owns various luxury foreign vehicles.

In a separate report, KCNA announced the return of a North Korean delegation from Russia and the departure of three delegations representing information technology, fisheries, and sports for Russia.