Lukashenko Receives Warm Welcome in Pyongyang by Kim Jong Un
Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko arrived in Pyongyang on Wednesday, March 26, 2026, for an official visit and was greeted by North Korean leader Kim Jong Un, according to reports from North Korean state media KCNA and international news agencies AP News, Reuters, and France24.
Ceremonial Welcome and Respects Paid
A welcoming ceremony for Lukashenko was held at Kim Il Sung Square, where Kim Jong Un “joyfully welcomed” the Belarusian leader. Lukashenko also visited the Kumsusan Palace of the Sun, the mausoleum housing the remains of Kim Jong Un’s father, Kim Jong Il, and grandfather, Kim Il Sung, paying his respects. He laid a bouquet on behalf of Russian President Vladimir Putin AP News.
Shared Interests and International Alignments
Both Belarus and North Korea are subject to Western sanctions and share a close relationship with Russia. The two nations have provided support to Moscow during its war in Ukraine; North Korea has reportedly supplied troops and weaponry, while Belarus has served as a staging ground for Russia’s 2022 invasion AP News.
Intelligence estimates suggest North Korea has sent thousands of troops to Russia, particularly to the Kursk region, along with significant quantities of artillery shells, missiles, and rocket systems AP News.
North Korea faces heavy Western sanctions due to its nuclear weapons and ballistic missile programs, as well as its support for Russia’s actions in Ukraine.
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