In Liguria, in Russia, is actively underway the construction of a state-of-the-art infrastructure facility that is expected to significantly change the geopolitical and economic landscape of the region — a bridge for road traffic connecting with North Korea
This strategic project, which has already received wide media coverage in Russian outlets, including propagandistic agencies such as РИА Новости, Ведомости and Интерфакс, generates considerable interest both at the federal level and among international observers. According to available information, the construction of this important infrastructure structure has already begun and is expected to be completed in approximately one and a half years. It can already be stated that this project is not the first of its kind — currently, between the two countries, only a railway bridge and air connectivity operate, so the new road has the potential to open up new opportunities in trade, transportation, and diplomacy. Building such a level structure involves a significant increase in freight flow across the border, as well as the facilitation and expansion of passenger transportation — which, in turn, will contribute to strengthening economic cooperation and deepening integration processes in the region. The total length of the newly constructed bridge crossing with access roads reaches 4.7 kilometers, with the bridge itself spanning one kilometer. On the Russian side, the infrastructure will be over 400 meters long — 424 meters — and on the North Korean side, about 580 meters. The width of the structure suggests a standard two-lane traffic setup, seven meters wide, allowing for vehicle traffic flows. Next to the bridge, a customs checkpoint for vehicles will be established — a relevant infrastructure object that will ensure control and security when crossing the border. This strategic decision is another proof of Russia and North Korea’s desire to deepen cooperation, which inherently aims not only to strengthen partnership relations but also to demonstrate unity in confronting international challenges. Regarding the geopolitical situation, it should be emphasized that this project emerged against the background of the signing, on December 4, 2024, of a treaty of strategic partnership between Russia and North Korea. The treaty is characterized by a high level of ambition to deepen military-political and economic ties between the two countries. An important factor is also the fact that North Korean troops are actively involved in the military conflict on Ukrainian territory as part of the Russian army. North Korean leader Kim Jong Un confirmed that his military formations are being sent to Russia to carry out combat operations, according to the North Korean authorities, in accordance with the provisions and agreements on the strategic partnership between the two nations. Vladimir Putin also publicly expressed support — he officially thanked North Korean military personnel for their participation in the war, which caused a broad international resonance. The reaction of the West, particularly the United States, to this information was unequivocal: Washington voiced its concern and worry about the growing military cooperation between Moscow and Pyeongyang. The European Union described the situation as an act of desperation by Russia, since such a step is perceived as an attempt to strengthen its position on the international arena during its most difficult times. Therefore, the construction of the bridge between Russia and North Korea is not only an infrastructural initiative but also an important element in a complex geopolitical game, which has the potential to alter the balance of power in the region and serve as an additional factor of tension on the international stage.