The cooperation between North Korea and Russia is based on benefits for the DPRK, which include technology, currency, and food.
Military analyst Denis Popovich noted this during a broadcast on Kyiv24. He believes that Kim Jong-un would only abandon his friendship with the Russian Federation if the United States can "outbid" the advantages that North Korea currently gains from its collaboration with the Kremlin.
"When we ask the question, we must also consider – what could they offer? What do they have? Currently, the cooperation between the DPRK and Russia is happening because North Korea provides goods. In a broad sense, people are also goods, paid goods; the ammunition that North Korea supplies along with other samples of weaponry and munitions is exchanged for technology, food, and currency. What could be offered that would be worthy enough for Kim Jong-un to abandon cooperation with Russia and collaborate with the U.S.? What could Trump propose to outbid Putin's offers?" added Popovich.
Given that Donald Trump wants to restore ties with Kim Jong-un, he will need to present compelling arguments to persuade the DPRK to stop working with Russia. The expert points out that the U.S. cannot afford to share technologies, considering the presence of allies like Japan and South Korea, who would oppose this. The expert also doubts whether easing sanctions would be a sufficient motive for the DPRK to change its course, as these sanctions have not hindered the country from developing its armed forces and nuclear program.
"I don't know how much they would agree to lift sanctions in order to turn down Putin's offers. We don't know everything, but the only way to outbid is to present something that interests Kim more," concluded Popovich.