N. Korea calls first Russia road bridge a sign of tighter ties

North Korea hailed the recently completed road bridge across its border with Russia as evidence of deepening ties between the two nations, according to state media reports on Tuesday. The bridge, located over the Tumen River, is designed to handle increased freight and passenger traffic, complementing the existing rail and air links.

This addition to bilateral cooperation was emphasized by North Korean official Pak Thae Song, who noted the bridge's role in fostering a more dynamic relationship. Russian Prime Minister Mikhail Mishustin, speaking via video link, highlighted the bridge as a significant step in strengthening connections between the two countries.

The bridge's completion comes amid heightened military and economic cooperation between Russia and North Korea since Russia's invasion of Ukraine in 2022. North Korea has dispatched troops to Russia to protect against potential Ukrainian advances, while the two nations signed a defense treaty in 2024 that pledges mutual support against external threats.

Despite being one of the world's most isolated nations, North Korea has been experiencing a growth in economic ties with Russia, which has bolstered its gross national income and foreign currency earnings. However, the increased presence of North Korean troops and military officials in Russia through the new bridge has raised concerns among Ukrainian rights groups, who warn of the potential for easier movement of military resources.