Vladimir Putin and Kim Jong-un will hold talks at a summit in Pyongyang today, where they are expected to discuss ways to boost sanctions-busting military ties.
Putin arrived in North Korea around 2.45am local time on Wednesday (6.45pm Tuesday BST), with Kim greeting the Russian president on a red carpet as he emerged from his private plane.
The pair shook hands and embraced, before departing together in a limousine for the Kumsusan State Guest House, where Putin is staying.
Putin is set to receive an official welcome today, with a string of engagements on the agenda, including meetings, a gala concert and a state reception that will involve the two leaders spending nine hours together.
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