Putin's animal gift to Kim sparks transport controversy
Good relations between Russia and North Korea surprised no one. However, another gesture of friendship between the countries led by Vladimir Putin and Kim Jong Un might catch some off guard. A gift from the Moscow Zoo will soon be making its way to the zoo in Pyongyang.
8:27 PM EST, November 21, 2024
How does one solidify the friendship between two nations governed by authoritarian leaders? A unique present, perhaps in the form of live animals, might do the trick. Russia and North Korea have maintained political and economic ties for years. The gift from Vladimir Putin to Kim Jong Un subtly underscores their relationship in an unusual manner. The leader of North Korea received an unexpected gift of 75 animals that will be relocated from the Moscow Zoo to the zoo in Pyongyang.
Two brown bears, yaks, white cockatoos, pheasants, and mandarin ducks were among the animals transferred.
Animals travel from Russia to North Korea; Conditions are criticized
The animals are destined for the zoo in North Korea's capital, Pyongyang, which is a popular attraction and propaganda tool. The zoo suggests the government's commitment to nature and aims to evoke admiration and showcase the state's wealth by displaying various exotic species.
Although the gesture itself might seem benign, many individuals, including environmentalists and animal rights activists, have protested after seeing footage of the conditions in which the animals were transported from Russia to Korea. "Double cage... What did these poor animals do to deserve this?" they asked.
