The construction of the first road bridge between North Korea and Russia has commenced, symbolizing a significant strengthening of ties between the two nations. Scheduled for completion in 2026, this project reflects deeper cooperation, especially in light of North Korea's military support to Russia during the Ukraine conflict.
North Korea and Russia Strengthen Ties with Historic Road Bridge Construction
North Korea and Russia Strengthen Ties with Historic Road Bridge Construction
North Korea marks a new chapter in relations with Russia through the construction of its first road bridge, enhancing bilateral cooperation amid ongoing geopolitical tensions.
North Korea has signaled a pivotal advancement in its relations with Russia through the initiation of its first road bridge construction, which state media envisions as a "significant" milestone. The bridge will span the Tumen River, located in the northeastern region of North Korea, and is being built adjacent to the existing 'Friendship Bridge,' a remnant from the Soviet era that serves as the only current land connection.
Construction commenced on Wednesday, with an anticipated completion date set for mid-2026, as reported by the Russian publication Kommersant. This development follows North Korea's recent acknowledgment of sending troops to aid Russia in its ongoing military engagement in Ukraine, marking a notable shift in military relations between the two nations.
The bridge project is the latest indication of the growing alliance between North Korea and Russia, which have increasingly collaborated since the onset of Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine in February 2022. Efforts to construct the bridge were agreed upon during Russian President Vladimir Putin's visit to North Korea last year, during which a "comprehensive strategic partnership" agreement was signed, elevating Moscow’s ties with Pyongyang to unprecedented levels.
At the unveiling ceremony for the construction, Russian Prime Minister Mikhail Mishustin emphasized that the bridge encompasses more than mere engineering, declaring it a representation of their mutual commitment to fostering amicable and neighborly relations while enhancing inter-regional cooperation.
The timing of the bridge's construction coincides with reports from South Korean lawmakers who stated that intelligence officials had estimated over 600 North Korean troops have died fighting alongside Russia in Ukraine. In exchange for military aid, it is believed that Russia has offered North Korea technical support for various military technologies, including satellite systems, drones, and defensive missile systems.
Earlier this week, North Korean military sources claimed their forces played a role in "completely liberating" Russia's Kursk border region, which continues to be a point of contention, as Ukrainian forces reportedly maintain a presence within the area. The evolving dynamics between North Korea and Russia are poised to reshape the landscape of international relations amidst these ongoing conflicts.
