Putin courts controversy with lavish Aurus limousine gift to Kim Jong Un

Russia's President Vladimir Putin gifted Kim Jong Un with the extravagant Russian Aurus limousine, as reported by Reuters. This action is believed to signify the camaraderie between the two politicians. Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov admitted that the Aurus Senat caught the North Korean leader's attention whilst visiting Eastern Russia in September.

"When the leader of the DPRK (North Korea) was visiting the Vostochny Cosmodrome, he showed interest in this car. Putin introduced it to him personally, and like many others, Kim found this car appealing," Peskov explained to the Russian media. "Subsequently, this decision was made. North Korea is our neighbouring country. We plan to continue enhancing our relationships with all neighbouring countries, including North Korea," he continued.

Vladimir Putin's presence could potentially be a violation of the rules of the UN Security Council by Russia, South Korea warns. The sanctions placed upon North Korea strictly forbid the direct or indirect delivery, sale, or transfer of all vehicles to this nation. "This includes luxury cars," said South Korean Ministry of Foreign Affairs representative Lim Soo-suk, as quoted by Reuters.

Reuters reported that the car gifted to Kim Jong Un is the first-ever full-scale Russian luxury saloon car. Coincidentally, it's also Vladimir Putin's presidential vehicle.

Source: Reuters Agency