Russia gifts North Korea over 70 zoo animals

An African lion, two brown bears, two domestic yaks and 40 mandarin ducks and five white cockatoos arrived in North Korea this Wednesday, in the form of a gift of over 70 species of animals from Russian President Vladimir Putin.

The gesture further strengthens ties between the two countries, after North Korean leader Kim Jong Un recently sent some 10,000 troops to Russia's border with Ukraine.

Alexander Kozlov, Russia's natural resources minister, oversaw the relocation of the animals, who were transported by plane to the Pyongyang Central Zoo and were accompanied by Russian veterinarians.

“Historically, animals have always played a special role in relations between states. They have been given as a sign of support, kindness and care," he said.

In June, President Vladimir Putin travelled to North Korea, where he met with its leader, Kim Jong Un. They signed a “comprehensive strategic partnership treaty” that formed the strongest link between Moscow and Pyongyang since the end of the Cold War. Both countries have been targeted by Western sanctions.