Kim Jong Un strengthens ties with Putin during Russia visit, returns home with gifts and gratitude

North Korean leader Kim Jong Un has returned home from his trip to Russia, where he strengthened ties with President Vladimir Putin. The two countries discussed boosting defense ties, raising concerns about potential arms transfer deals in violation of U.N. Security Council resolutions. Kim's visit included visits to munitions factories and military sites to observe advanced weapons systems. Experts speculate that Kim may supply ammunition to Russia in exchange for modernizing his nuclear weapons arsenal, while others suggest he may receive food and economic aid. South Korea has summoned the Russian ambassador to express concerns about military cooperation with North Korea. Kim's efforts to bolster his nuclear arsenal are seen as a strategy to gain concessions from the U.S. and boost his domestic standing amid economic challenges.