Topline
Russian President Vladimir Putin gifted a car to North Korean leader Kim Jong-Un, state-run media in Pyongyang reported Tuesday, which South Korean officials say is a violation of UN sanctions.
Key Facts
According to the state-controlled Korean Central News Agency, the car is Russian-made and has been gifted to Kim for his “personal use.”
Kim Yo Jong, the North Korean leader’s sister, thanked Putin and called the gift a “clear demonstration of the special personal relations” between the two leaders.
Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov confirmed the report and said the vehicle was made by Russian luxury carmaker Aurus.
The Aurus Senat is Putin’s presidential limousine—in which Kim was offered a ride during his visit to Russia in September last year.
Officials from Seoul’s Unification Ministry and Foreign Ministry said the gift contravened UN Security Council resolutions banning the transfer or sale of luxury items to North Korea.
Crucial Quote
“We condemned North Korea for its brazen attitude of publicly revealing the violation of the U.N. sanctions. Russia should also be aware of its responsibility as a permanent member of the UNSC and stop an act that undermines international norms,” a Unification Ministry spokesperson told reporters in Seoul.
News Peg
The UN Security Council, of which Russia is a permanent member, has passed several resolutions banning the export of luxury goods and vehicles to North Korea. A resolution passed in 2006 first banned “the direct or indirect supply, sale or transfer” of luxury goods to the country—alongside weapons. Another resolution passed in 2017 placed a similar ban on all vehicles.
Further Reading
N.K. leader receives Russian-made car from Putin as gift (Yonhap News Agency)
North Korea’s Kim Jong Un receives car as gift from Putin (Reuters)