North Korea Shuts Down Numerous Embassies Amid Dire Economic Situation and Shift Towards Russia, China
Diplomatic mission closures potentially affecting 20% of North Korea's presence abroad as international sanctions disrupt the nation's ability to finance overseas offices, with reasoned shift towards bolstering alliances with Russia and China.
- North Korea has confirmed the closure of several diplomatic missions abroad due to increasing economic struggles. Embassies in Spain, Angola and Uganda are among those currently shutting down due to international sanctions disrupting North Korea's abilities to finance its overseas offices.
- The closures potentially affect 20% of North Korea's diplomatic presence abroad. This shift is believed to be influenced by a focus on bolstering alliances with China and Russia, significant players in global diplomacy.
- These closures indicator a shift in North Korea's foreign policy, moving toward a 'new Cold War diplomacy' focusing on key countries like China, Russia, Syria, Iran and Cuba, clearing out those it considers difficult and burdensome to maintain.
- North Korean embassies have generated income through various alleged illegal activities, including smuggling, money laundering and military deals. These activities have been significantly impacted by international sanctions, leading to increasing financial constraints for North Korea.
- The closures appear to be a sign of North Korea's dire economic situation, stemming from both pandemic-caused restrictions and its own mismanagement, as well as international sanctions. The country's foreign currency earnings are being notably disrupted, making it challenging to maintain even minimal diplomatic ties with its traditional allies.
The Hill 
Al Jazeera 
CNA 
Washington Post 
Associated Press 
Reuters 
South China Morning Post 
The Japan Times 
UPI 
