Russian President Vladimir Putin has reportedly gifted North Korean leader Kim Jong Un a Russian-made luxury limousine, raising concerns over a potential violation of a U.N. resolution.
The resolution prohibits the supply of luxury items to North Korea in an effort to pressure the country to abandon its nuclear weapons program.
Observers note that the gift, accepted by Kim’s sister, Kim Yo Jong, and another senior North Korean official, demonstrates a special personal relationship between the two leaders.
The Korean Central News Agency reported on Sunday that Kim Yo Jong conveyed her brother’s gratitude to Putin for the lavish gift.
According to CNN, US intelligence officials, citing sources familiar with the latest intelligence, express increasing concern over the long-term implications of what appears to be a deepening strategic partnership between North Korea and Russia.
Kim Jong Un, known for his preference for luxury vehicles, has been frequently seen in an armored Mercedes-Maybach Pullman Guard limousine, valued at over $1 million.
Previous instances, such as arriving at a meeting with US officials in a black Rolls-Royce in 2018, underscore the leader’s affinity for high-end automobiles.
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The Washington-based Center for Advanced Defense Studies revealed in 2018 that two armored Mercedes-Maybach S600 Guard vehicles were shipped from the Netherlands to North Korea, likely intended for Kim’s personal use.
