Russian President Vladimir Putin gave a car to North Korean leader Kim Jong-un, state media in Pyongyang reported Tuesday (February 20), which several South Korean officials say constitutes a violation of sanctions. UN.
Article by Siladitya Ray for Forbes US – translated by Flora Lucas
What you must remember
According to the Korean Central News Agency (North Korea's government news agency), the car is Russian-made and was given to Kim Jong-un for his “personal use.” Kim Yo-jong, the North Korean leader's sister, thanked Vladimir Putin and called the gift “a clear demonstration of the special personal relationship” between the two leaders.
Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov confirmed the information and said the vehicle was manufactured by Russian luxury car maker Aurus. The Aurus Senat is Vladimir Putin's presidential limousine, in which Kim Jong-un was offered a ride during his visit to Russia in September 2023.
Officials from Seoul's Unification Ministry and Foreign Ministry said the gift contravened United Nations Security Council resolutions banning the transfer or sale of luxury items to North Korea.
Important quote
“We condemned the behavior of North Korea, which brazenly publicly revealed that it had violated UN sanctions. Russia should also be aware of its responsibility as a permanent member of the UN Security Council and put an end to an act that undermines international norms,” a spokesperson for the Unification Ministry told the press in Seoul.
Context
The United Nations Security Council, of which Russia is a permanent member, has adopted several resolutions banning the export of luxury goods and vehicles to North Korea. A resolution adopted in 2006 first banned “the direct or indirect supply, sale or transfer” of luxury items to the country, as well as weapons. Another resolution passed in 2017 imposed a similar ban on all vehicles.
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