Russian President Vladimir Putin has gifted more than 70 animals from Moscow Zoo, including an African lion and brown bears, to Pyongyang Central Zoo in North Korea.

The transfer follows reports that more than 10,000 North Korean troops have joined the Russian Army in its ongoing invasion of Ukraine, particularly around the embattled Kursk border region, which Moscow has been attempting to recapture. 

The animals, including white cockatoos, pheasants and mandarin ducks, were transported by air under the care of Russian veterinarians and formally handed over by Russia’s Natural Resources Minister Alexander Kozlov. Russian officials have described the gesture as a sign of goodwill, following earlier animal exchanges between the countries. Earlier this year, Moscow sent several rare bird species to Pyongyang, while North Korea’s leader gifted Putin a pair of Pungsan dogs during his visit to Russia in June.

This collaboration underlines the growing ties between the two nations, with officials highlighting enhanced cooperation on wildlife preservation. 

“Animals have historically played an important role in international relations, serving as symbols of support, kindness and care,” Kozlov said, following the handover, expressing confidence in North Korea’s ability to provide suitable facilities for the animals despite its economic challenges.

The partnership between the two countries extends beyond symbolic exchanges. Following Putin’s visit to North Korea earlier this year, Moscow and Pyongyang have reportedly strengthened military and economic cooperation. Alongside troops, North Korea has allegedly supplied artillery, rocket launchers and other lethal equipment to support Russia’s war efforts. In return, it is believed that Russia may be assisting North Korea with financial backing and access to advanced military technologies, including missile systems and reconnaissance satellites, potentially bolstering Pyongyang’s intercontinental ballistic missile development and nuclear deterrence capabilities.