North Korea and Russia are set to enhance their long-standing strategic partnership with a new infrastructure move. Scheduled to be completed by the end of 2026, the 4-kilometer-long bridge will connect the north of North Korea to the east of Russia.

A new massive bridge construction project between Russia and North Korea will soon commence. The new project will be built adjacent to an existing railway bridge connecting North Korea with the east of Russia.

TO BE COMPLETED BY 2026 The 4-kilometer-long bridge expected to be completed by the end of 2026 will establish a connection between the north of North Korea and eastern Russia. It will be located near the existing “Friendship Bridge” railway connection inaugurated in 1959. With this project, set to begin construction over the Tumen River, a natural border among Russia, North Korea, and China, the aim is to strengthen regional connections.

STRENGTHENING TIES BETWEEN THE TWO COUNTRIES According to NK News, Russian Prime Minister Mikhail Mishustin signed a surprise decree in February transferring the ambitious project to a Russian company. While construction has not yet commenced, the green light was given after Russian leader Vladimir Putin’s visit to North Korea in 2024. Putin’s interactions were considered a milestone in enhancing the ties between Pyongyang and Moscow.

PREPARATIONS IN FULL SWING Russia’s Ambassador to Pyongyang, Aleksandr Matsegora, stated, “Both sides are currently finalizing design documents, forming construction teams, and gathering the necessary equipment.” Matsegora mentioned to Russian state news agency RIA that the construction of the bridge has not started yet, but preparations are ongoing. Russian Security Council Secretary Sergey Shoigu, during his visit to Pyongyang last Friday, revealed that he informed North Korean leader Kim Jong-un about the ongoing communications between the United States and Russia.