From Soldiers to Lions and Bears: The Unconventional Exchange Cementing the Growing Alliance Between Russia and North Korea
In an unusual display of diplomacy, North Korea has sent thousands of troops to Russia to aid in its war against Ukraine. In return, Russian President Vladimir Putin has gifted North Korea more than 70 animals, including a lion, two brown bears, and various exotic birds, as a symbol of the countries’ strengthening relationship.
According to Russian state media, the animals were transferred from Moscow Zoo to Pyongyang Central Zoo as part of what Russia’s Natural Resources and Environment Ministry described as “Putin’s gift to the Korean people.” Among the animals sent are two domestic yaks, 40 mandarin ducks, 25 pheasants of different species, and five white cockatoos.
The exchange underscores the deepening alliance between the two nations, which has been growing steadily in recent months. In June, both countries revived a Cold War-era mutual defense pact. By August, over 10,000 North Korean troops were reportedly stationed in Russia’s Kursk region, where intense battles with Ukrainian forces continue.
A Trade of Troops and Tokens
Experts speculate that North Korea’s contribution to Russia’s military efforts could lead to reciprocal support from Moscow. Kim Jong-un’s regime, struggling under harsh international sanctions and economic instability, could benefit from oil, military expertise, or advanced weaponry from Russia. However, analysts say exotic animals might not be on Pyongyang’s wishlist.
Under Kim’s leadership, North Korea has faced worsening humanitarian conditions, exacerbated by strict sanctions, the COVID-19 pandemic, and natural disasters. American officials worry that Russia’s assistance could bolster North Korea’s military capabilities, including intercontinental ballistic missile technology that threatens South Korea and the United States.
Animals as Diplomacy
This is not the first time animals have been used to solidify international ties. China has long engaged in “panda diplomacy,” gifting pandas to countries like Japan, South Korea, and the United States. North Korea, too, has previously used animals as tokens of goodwill. In 2018, Kim gifted two white Pungsan dogs, a breed native to North Korea, to then-South Korean President Moon Jae-in during a summit.
The recent gift from Russia includes animals that are currently under quarantine to ensure their acclimatization to North Korea’s environment. According to reports, a lion has already been spotted in its new enclosure at the Pyongyang Central Zoo, which has been open since 1959.
While the transfer of troops and animals may seem like an odd exchange, it highlights the evolving dynamics between two isolated nations forging closer ties amid international scrutiny.
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