Moscow: Russia and North Korea are preparing to open a major new road bridge connecting the two countries, in what analysts describe as another clear sign of their rapidly expanding relationship during the ongoing Ukraine conflict. Satellite images recently reviewed by BBC Verify show that construction of the border crossing is almost complete, along with several nearby facilities and access roads.
The bridge stretches across the Tumen River and is located close to the long standing Friendship Bridge, a railway link that has served as the only direct connection between the two nations for decades. Officials believe the new road connection will significantly improve transport and trade activities between Moscow and Pyongyang.
The latest images show the nearly finished structure together with new checkpoints, parking areas and support buildings on both sides of the border. Russian authorities have said the crossing will be capable of handling about 300 vehicles and close to 3,000 people daily after it officially opens.
Plans for the bridge were finalised during Russian President Vladimir Putin’s visit to North Korea in June 2024, when he held talks with North Korean leader Kim Jong Un. During the meeting, both sides agreed to strengthen cooperation in multiple areas including transport, trade and defence. Construction reportedly started the following year and progressed quickly. Russian officials have indicated that the bridge could be ready by June 19.
Experts say the project has strategic importance beyond trade. Security analysts believe the bridge may become a key route for transporting military supplies, weapons and other materials between the two allies. Since the start of the war in Ukraine, Western countries and South Korea have repeatedly accused North Korea of supporting Russia with troops and weapons.
South Korean intelligence agencies estimate that around 15,000 North Korean soldiers have been deployed to support Russian operations in Ukraine. Seoul also claims that nearly 2,000 North Korean troops have lost their lives in the conflict. Moscow and Pyongyang have not officially confirmed these numbers, but both countries have publicly demonstrated closer military cooperation in recent months.
Recently, Kim Jong Un and Russian Defence Minister Andrey Belousov attended a memorial ceremony in Pyongyang dedicated to North Korean troops believed to have died in the Ukraine war. Russian media reports also suggested that discussions on future military cooperation took place during the visit.
Observers believe North Korea has received food supplies, fuel assistance and military technology from Russia in return for its support. Analysts also say the speed of the bridge construction reflects the growing economic and political relationship between the two countries. What was once viewed as a quiet border crossing is now becoming an increasingly important strategic connection.
Russia’s foreign ministry described the bridge as an important milestone in relations with North Korea and said the project carries significance beyond transport infrastructure alone. Experts believe the partnership between the two countries is expected to remain strong even after the Ukraine war eventually comes to an end.