Vladivostok, Russia – Prosecutors in Vladivostok, Russia, have requested a prison sentence of four years and eight months for a US soldier accused of theft and making threats to kill his girlfriend. Gordon Black, who was detained on May 2 in Vladivostok, pleaded not guilty to the charges during a court hearing. The prosecutor urged the court to impose the sentence in a penal colony and also requested a fine of 40,000 roubles ($469). Black’s defense lawyer, however, appealed for his acquittal.

Black partially acknowledged his guilt in stealing 10,000 roubles ($113) from his girlfriend’s purse but denied any intention of theft. The couple met in South Korea, where Black was stationed, and he violated army rules by traveling to Russia without authorization, passing through China.

Kim and Putin are set to conduct negotiations throughout the day in various formats. Putin’s aide, Yury Ushakov, emphasized Russia’s willingness to cooperate with all countries despite external pressure. Ushakov noted the mutual understanding between Russia and North Korea regarding the Ukrainian crisis, highlighting the significance of their shared approaches to international issues.

The discussions between Kim and Putin are expected to result in the signing of several joint documents, possibly including a new comprehensive strategic partnership treaty. Ushakov hinted at enhanced military-technical cooperation and assistance as part of the agreement, reflecting the close alignment of the two countries on various foreign policy matters.

North Korea views Russia as a potential long-term economic partner, a strategic move that could reduce its reliance on the United States for sanctions relief and access to the international financial system. By strengthening ties with Russia, North Korea may prioritize economic development and space and missile programs with external support.

The relationship between Moscow and Pyongyang is described by North Korean media as a “strong, strategic fortress” as Putin embarks on his first visit to North Korea in nearly 25 years. The state-run news wire KCNA praised the partnership, emphasizing its role in shaping a new multipolar world and demonstrating invincibility and durability.

Putin’s visit to North Korea signifies the deepened ties between the two countries since the Russian invasion of Ukraine in 2022. While North Korea has reportedly provided weapons to Russia in exchange for aid and support, both countries have denied any formal agreement on weapons transfers. The visit has raised concerns about security implications for Ukraine and the Korean peninsula, especially given recent tensions at the border between North and South Korea.