Vladimir Putin gifts car to North Korea's Kim Jong Un

Russian President Vladimir Putin has given a car as a gift to North Korean leader Kim Jong Un, highlighting their "special personal relations".

State media outlets stated that the Russian-made vehicle was handed over to Kim's inner circle, including his sister Kim Yo Jong, on February 18th for the leader's "personal use."

However, this action seems to violate United Nations sanctions against North Korea, which prohibit supplying any "transportation vehicles" to the isolated nation. Despite these sanctions, Kim is known for possessing a collection of high-end automobiles, such as luxury brands like Mercedes-Maybach and Rolls-Royce.

The bond between Putin and Kim has grown stronger in recent years, particularly since Russia's invasion of Ukraine in 2022, as both leaders face increasing isolation on the global stage. Kim has previously voiced support for Putin in response to what he called "imperialist anti-Russia schemes."

However, concerns have been raised by the international community, especially by the United States and South Korea, regarding the escalating military collaboration between Moscow and Pyongyang.

Speculation emerged in November when South Korea's intelligence agency suggested that Russia might have aided North Korea in launching a spy satellite, an act condemned by Seoul, Tokyo, and Washington as a potential cover for ballistic missile testing.

As Putin and Kim deepen their ties, the world observes with a mix of curiosity and concern, mindful of the implications of their growing alliance on regional and global stability.