Russian Interior Minister Vladimir Kolokoltsev Meets North Korea’s Public Security Chief Pang Du-sop
In Pyongyang, Russian Interior Minister Vladimir Kolokoltsev held discussions with Pang Du-sop, the head of North Korea’s public security apparatus. The talks centered on several critical topics, including Pyongyang’s support for Moscow’s war against Ukraine and the involvement of North Korean troops in combat operations within Russia’s Kursk region. Moscow expressed gratitude to Pyongyang for its military assistance, highlighting the role of North Korean soldiers in the conflict.
Deepening Security and Law Enforcement Cooperation
The two sides also explored ways to enhance collaboration between their security and law enforcement agencies. Key areas of discussion included:
- sharing best practices in policing;
- training and personnel development;
- migration control;
- joint efforts to combat drug trafficking.
Russia proposed that North Korea step up intelligence-sharing on narcotics smuggling and suspected individuals. During the meeting, Kolokoltsev stated:
“Russia highly values and will not forget the sacrifice of Korean soldiers.”
To conclude the talks, both parties signed a delegation exchange program covering 2026–2027. It is worth noting that since the start of Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine, North Korea has emerged as one of the largest suppliers of artillery ammunition to the Russian military, delivering millions of shells by sea and rail. In 2024, Kim Jong Un ratified a comprehensive strategic partnership treaty between North Korea and Russia.
These negotiations underscore the strengthening military and political ties between Russia and North Korea, a development with significant implications for regional security and international relations. The growing cooperation in security and anti-drug information sharing also points to shared interests in tackling organized crime. The newly signed delegation exchange program for 2026–2027 signals both nations’ intent to maintain close engagement in the years ahead.
These developments come in the wake of a recent visit by Russia's Interior Minister to Pyongyang, where he discussed critical security issues with North Korean officials. For a deeper understanding of the strategic discussions that are shaping the military landscape in the region, explore our detailed report on the security talks in Pyongyang.