Visit by Russia’s Shoigu to North Korea Stirs New Arms Fears

A warning to Washington?

On August 17, 2022, Russian Defense Minister Sergei Shoigu completed his first visit to North Korea. The visit was highly publicized and included a meeting with North Korean leader Kim Jong-un. In a separate meeting with his North Korean counterpart, Pak Jong-chon, Shoigu deepened military ties between the two countries and discussed regional security issues.

Shoigu’s visit comes at a time of heightened tensions between North Korea and the United States. In recent months, North Korea has conducted a series of missile tests, including the launch of an intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM) in March 2022. The United States has responded by sending a carrier strike group to the region and conducting joint military exercises with South Korea and Japan.

What does this mean for the US?

Shoigu’s visit to North Korea is a sign of the growing relationship between the two countries. It also sends a warning to the United States, which has been trying to pressure North Korea to give up its nuclear weapons program. The visit could also be a sign that Russia is preparing to provide North Korea with new weapons or military support.

What can the US do?

The United States has a number of options in response to Shoigu's visit to North Korea. It could increase pressure on North Korea by imposing new sanctions or conducting more military exercises in the region. It could also try to engage with North Korea diplomatically, although this is unlikely to be successful given North Korea's recent behavior.

Conclusion

Shoigu's visit to North Korea is a reminder of the complex and dangerous situation on the Korean Peninsula. The United States must carefully consider its response to this latest development, as any misstep could have serious consequences.