Putin lends Kim support for ending nuke standoff

Published On: April 25, 2019 10:37 AM NPT By: Associated Press

Photo Courtesy: Associated Press

VLADIVOSTOK, April 25: The Latest on the summit between Russian President Vladimir Putin and North Korean leader Kim Jong Un (all times local):

2:20 p.m.

President Vladimir Putin has opened his talks with North Korean leader Kim Jong Un, saying that Russia would like to help support efforts to resolve the North Korean nuclear standoff.

Putin told Kim on Thursday that Russia supports his efforts to normalize North Korea’s relations with the United States.

He added that the talks should help better understand what Russia could do to support negotiations.

Kim congratulated Putin on winning another six-year term in last year’s election.

He noted that their talks will give a chance to exchange views on the situation on the Korean Peninsula.

2 p.m.

Russian President Vladimir Putin and North Korean leader Kim Jong Un have shaken hands before heading to talks at a university in Russia’s far-eastern city of Vladivostok.

TV coverage showed Kim arriving in a limousine before shaking hands with Putin. Putin smiled and gestured to Kim before they both walked inside the building.

Putin then introduced Kim to Russian officials who shook his hand.

Thursday’s summit reflects Russia’s effort to position itself as an essential player in the North Korean nuclear standoff.

Kim’s first trip to Russia comes about two months after his second summit with U.S. President Donald Trump, which failed because of disputes over U.S.-led sanctions on the North.

12:30 p.m.

Russian President Vladimir Putin has arrived in Vladivostok for a summit with North Korean leader Kim Jong Un.

Thursday’s summit reflects Russia’s effort to position itself as an essential player in the North Korean nuclear standoff.

Kim’s first trip to Russia comes about two months after his second summit with U.S. President Donald Trump, which failed because of disputes over U.S.-led sanctions on the North.

Putin and Kim are set to have one-on-one meeting at the Far Eastern State University on the Russky Island across a bridge from Vladivostok. The meeting will be followed by broader talks involving officials from both sides.

Kim arrived Wednesday in Vladivostok on his armored train, saying upon arrival that he’s hoping for a “successful and useful” visit.