Russian President Vladimir Putin has lauded North Korea for its steadfast support of Moscow's war efforts in Ukraine, as he prepares for his first visit to Pyongyang in 24 years.

The visit, set for Tuesday, will mark a significant moment in the relationship between the two nations.

In a letter published by North Korean state media, President Putin expressed gratitude for North Korea's backing and promised to develop trade and security frameworks independent of Western influence.

He also vowed to support Pyongyang's efforts to defend its interests against what he described as "US pressure, blackmail, and military threats," emphasizing the shared goal of opposing Western ambitions to disrupt the establishment of a multipolar world order.

The Kremlin has framed the visit as a "friendly state visit," with Russian media suggesting that Putin and North Korean leader Kim Jong Un may sign a partnership agreement that could include security issues. The visit is expected to feature a parade in Kim Il Sung Square, a concert, and a tour of the Orthodox Church of the Life-Giving Trinity in Pyongyang.

Putin's delegation will include Defense Minister Andrei Belousov, Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov, and Deputy Prime Minister Alexander Novak. Reports indicate that Putin will stay at the Kumsusan guesthouse, the same location where Chinese leader Xi Jinping stayed during his 2019 state visit.

The US has expressed concern over the deepening relationship between Russia and North Korea. National Security Council spokesman John Kirby stated: "What we are concerned about is the deepening relationship between these two countries." Experts suggest that Putin's visit aims to strengthen ties with an old Cold War ally to counter US efforts to isolate Moscow.

John Nilsson-Wright of Cambridge University's Centre for Geopolitics noted that Putin's actions are bolstering relations between authoritarian regimes at a time when democratic governments are facing global security challenges. The visit underscores the growing collaboration between Russia and North Korea, particularly since Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine.

North Korea seeks assistance with space technology, food, fuel, and foreign currency, while Russia continues to face a shortage of weapons for its war in Ukraine. Despite accusations from Washington and Seoul that Pyongyang has supplied Moscow with artillery and other equipment in exchange for aid, both nations deny any arms deal exists.

Following his visit to North Korea, President Putin is expected to travel to Vietnam to discuss trade and other issues with another long-time ally. (ILKHA)