Putin’s Secret Horse Deal with Kim Jong-un Exposed!

In an unexpected twist on global diplomacy, Vladimir Putin has reportedly given North Korean leader Kim Jong-un 24 purebred horses as a gesture of friendship, a move believed to be tied to Russia’s need for artillery shells in the ongoing Ukraine conflict. The transfer of these valuable animals underscores the deepening ties between the two leaders, each leveraging their country’s assets in a time of international isolation.

The horses, all Orlov Trotters—a breed favored by Kim Jong-un—arrived in North Korea on Sunday. This breed, known for its grace and strength, has a particular significance in North Korean culture, often used in state propaganda to symbolize the power and prestige of the Kim dynasty. The consignment of 19 stallions and five mares was delivered via the narrow land border between Russia and North Korea, according to the veterinary authorities in Primorsky Krai, a Russian Far East region with direct rail connections to North Korea.

South Korean media reports suggest that these horses are part of a broader transaction involving North Korean artillery shells, which Russia has been using in its military campaign in Ukraine. While the exact number of shells exchanged remains undisclosed, the delivery of the horses is seen as partial payment for these munitions. This exchange marks a significant moment in the evolving relationship between Moscow and Pyongyang, highlighting how both nations are navigating their international challenges through mutual support.

This isn’t the first time Kim has received such a gift from Putin. In 2022, North Korea was gifted 30 Orlov Trotters, with images of Kim riding these horses frequently featured in North Korean propaganda. These images serve to bolster Kim’s image as a strong and capable leader, deeply connected to his nation’s heritage.

The bond between Putin and Kim goes beyond horses. In June, North Korean state media reported that Kim sent Putin a pair of Pungsan dogs, a native breed, as a token of their growing partnership. This exchange of animals seems to be part of a broader, more symbolic relationship that underscores the shared values and mutual interests of the two leaders. In August, Putin reciprocated with a gift of 447 goats, further cementing this unusual diplomatic exchange.

North Korea’s investment in equestrian activities, despite its ongoing development of nuclear weapons and ballistic missiles, is intriguing. Between 2020 and 2023, the country spent at least $600,000 importing thoroughbred horses from Russia. These horses, while not used in modern warfare, play a significant role in the country’s symbolic and cultural identity, particularly in the glorification of the Kim family.

The Mirim Horse Riding Club, North Korea’s premier equestrian center, features Kim Jong-un prominently. The leader is depicted on horseback 386 times within the club’s museum, with various sayings on the importance of horsemanship displayed throughout. One notable quote from Kim reads: “Horses may no longer be used in war, but the war horse is important from the perspective that they display the military’s greatness.”

Another quote emphasizes the importance of horse riding for military leaders: “Commanders must ride horses. A person who rides horses will gain a stronger disposition and higher command ability, and it is also related to physical strength.”

The investment in horses, combined with the symbolic gestures exchanged between Kim and Putin, reflects a deeper narrative. In a world where both leaders face significant international pressure—Putin over his actions in Ukraine and Kim for his nuclear ambitions—their relationship is evolving into one of mutual reliance. As they continue to exchange gifts and support, their partnership signals a significant shift in global alliances, one that could have lasting implications for the geopolitical landscape.

In summary, the gift of 24 purebred horses from Putin to Kim is not just a simple gesture of friendship. It’s a symbol of the growing bond between two isolated leaders, each seeking to strengthen their position on the world stage through a unique blend of traditional diplomacy and symbolic exchanges. As this relationship deepens, it will undoubtedly be watched closely by the international community, especially in light of the ongoing conflicts and tensions surrounding both nations.