North Korea recently unveiled a new nuclear weapons system, described as its ‘most powerful’.
The reclusive nation often showcases its nuclear capabilities, claiming these developments deter the United States.
During a military parade held in Pyongyang, the North Korean capital, the latest missiles were exhibited to visiting dignitaries.
Among the prominent guests were Chinese Premier Li Qiang, former Russian President Dmitry Medvedev, and To Lam, chief of the Vietnamese Communist Party.
Medvedev met with North Korean leader Kim Jong Un on Friday, commending North Korean soldiers who are reportedly fighting with Russian forces in Ukraine.
This parade commemorated the 80th anniversary of the Workers’ Party’s founding in North Korea.
The event featured the Hwasong-20 missile, labeled as the ‘most powerful nuclear strategic weapons system’.
Additionally, other missile systems were displayed, including shorter-range cruise missiles and supersonic variants.
An anniversary concert on Thursday included performances by Russian singers and ballet dancers.
Kim Jong Un, in his address, emphasized that the military must “continue to evolve into an invincible force”.
The North Korean leader has previously advocated for stronger relations with Russia, with an estimated 15,000 North Korean troops deployed to Ukraine.
Last year, Kim Yo Jong, his sister, cautioned the US against resuming denuclearization talks with North Korea.
She remarked: “If the U.S. fails to accept the changed reality and persists in the failed past, the DPRK – U.S. meeting will remain as a ‘hope’ of the U.S. side.”
The attendance of China’s Li Qiang, a key figure second only to Xi Jinping, was particularly notable.
This visit was the most significant by a Chinese official to North Korea since 2019, when Xi Jinping himself made a visit.
Earlier, Kim Jong Un traveled to Beijing for a parade at Tiananmen Square, commemorating the 80th anniversary of Japan’s World War II surrender.
There, he stood alongside Xi Jinping and Russian President Vladimir Putin, marking his initial participation in an international gathering.
The participation of high-ranking Russian and Chinese officials at the Pyongyang parade underscores North Korea’s diplomatic ties, even as the nation faces extensive sanctions.