Kim Jong Un and Putin met at the Vostochny Cosmodrome in Russia’s far east

Following a summit when Kim Jong Un of North Korea appeared to support Moscow's attack on Ukraine, Vladimir Putin has stated that Russia is exploring and negotiating some military cooperation with that nation.

The presidents met at the Vostochny Cosmodrome in Russia's far east at a time when both nations are being isolated internationally due to Pyongyang's ballistic missile and nuclear weapons program and Moscow's invasion of Ukraine.

After US officials expressed concern that Russia and North Korea are "actively advancing" in a prospective arms deal, which could see Pyongyang give Moscow weaponry to use in its waning Ukraine war in exchange for sanctioned ballistic missile technology, the two countries met. 

When the presidents met, was Putin asked if he and Kim discussed military-technical cooperation. In his statement, Putin acknowledged the limitations that are in place and that Moscow completely complies with, but he also stated that there are some areas that are still up for discussion and consideration, indicating the possibility of future collaboration. 

Putin stated to state-run television station Russia 1 that "there are some restrictions, and Russia abides by all of these restrictions." However, there are some things that we can talk about, consider, and discuss. There are opportunities here as well," he continued. 

During a toast at a state dinner with Putin, Kim declared that he was "certain" that Russia's military and people will triumph in the struggle against the wicked forces that aspire to hegemony and expansion.

Following their nearly five-hour meeting on Wednesday, North Korea claimed that leader Kim Jong Un asked Russian President Vladimir Putin to visit North Korea.