The leaders alternated driving while engaging in conversation during the ride.
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A video of
Russian President Vladimir Putin driving North Korean leader Kim Jong-un in a
Russian-made Aurus limousine has gone viral on social media, highlighting the
strengthening bond between the two countries and their leaders.
Released by
Russian state TV, the video shows Putin behind the wheel of the black armored
Aurus, his official presidential car, with Kim seated in the passenger seat. As
they drive through a well-manicured park, the two leaders are seen chatting and
laughing throughout the journey.
They took
turns driving and enjoyed a lighthearted conversation during their ride.
After the
brief drive, the leaders are shown walking side by side, conversing along a
path in a wooded area. Reports indicate that Putin gifted Kim the Aurus
limousine earlier in February and has now presented him with another one. Kim,
known for his interest in luxury cars, now owns at least two of these vehicles.
The Aurus
Senat, modeled after the Soviet-era ZIL limousine, serves as the official car
for the Russian president. During Kim’s visit to Russia in September last year,
Putin showcased one of these cars to him.
Kim boasts a
large collection of luxury foreign vehicles, likely smuggled into North Korea
due to U.N. Security Council sanctions banning luxury goods exports to the
country. He has been seen in a Maybach limousine, various Mercedes models, a
Rolls-Royce Phantom, and a Lexus SUV.
In return,
Kim gifted Putin a pair of Pungsan dogs, a breed native to North Korea. The two
leaders were seen admiring the dogs, tied to a rose-covered fence, in a segment
aired on North Korean state TV. They also bonded over animals, with Kim feeding
carrots to a horse while Putin petted it.
Additionally,
North Korea and Russia signed an agreement to deepen their military
cooperation, including a mutual defense pledge. Kim Jong-un described the new
relationship as an "alliance."