Shifting ties with China

While Pyongyang and Beijing have experienced strained relations in recent years, analysts believe Kim is now working to repair those ties.

China remains North Korea’s largest trading partner and a vital source of aid. With the outcome of Russia’s war in Ukraine uncertain, experts say Kim is positioning himself to lean on Beijing once again.

Putin, who arrived in China on Sunday for both the Shanghai Cooperation Organization summit and the parade, has not confirmed whether he will meet Kim privately, though Russian officials said such talks are “under consideration.”

Meanwhile, North Korea’s state media reported that Kim was warmly welcomed at Beijing railway station and thanked Xi’s government for its “cordial hospitality.”