Russian premier Vladimir Putin has gifted North Korean leader Kim Jong Un a luxury Russian-made limousine. The announcement from both countries is a demonstration of deepening ties between the nations. At the same time, the gesture from the Russian President has prompted questions about the violation of sanctions imposed on North Korea regarding the import of luxury items. These sanctions are an attempt to pressure the nation to abandon its nuclear weapons.
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The make of the limousine gifted to Kim Jong Un by Vladimir Putin has not been disclosed. However, there are multiple speculations about the model. Many believe that it is an Aurus Senat Limousine. This is the same car that Putin had earlier shown to Kim Jong Un on his visit to Russia in September 2023.
Rumours also say that the gift is an attempt at improving ties between both nations. The car manufacturer Aurus is the first Russian luxury car brand. Furthermore, the Russian premier first used an Aurus limousine during his inauguration ceremony in 2018 directing the world’s attention toward the brand.
Ever since the models of the brand have been used in the motorcades of top officials of the country. As per AP’s report, Kim Jong Un’s sister, Kim Yo Jong, along with other senior North Korean officials accepted the gift. Kim Yo Jong expressed gratitude to Putin on behalf of her brother, as reported by the Korean Central News Agency.
She also noted that the gift was indicative of the special personal relationship shared by the two leaders. It is worth mentioning that North Korean leader Kim Jong Un is considered to be a car enthusiast. Furthermore, he is particularly fond of luxury cars like Mercedes-Maybach S-Class, along with other such vehicles.
Reports suggest that, during his Russia visit Kim used a Maybach limousine for his commute between sites which was later brought to him in his special train carriage.