The Kremlin has announced that Russian President Vladimir Putin will visit North Korea from Tuesday.
It will be Putin’s first visit to Pyongyang in 24 years.
Russia is said to be procuring ammunition and other weapons from North Korea as its invasion of Ukraine drags on.
Putin is expected to meet North Korean leader Kim Jong Un to deepen military ties between the two countries.
Reuters news agency reported that satellite imagery showed large structures were installed at Kim Il Sung Square in Pyongyang. The square is known for staging military parades and large-scale commemorative events.
South Korea’s Yonhap News Agency said Pyongyang may be preparing massive choreographed performances at the square for Putin.
Diplomatic sources told NHK that arrangements are being made for Putin to visit Vietnam later this week.
NHK confirmed on Monday two Ilyushin-76 transport planes of the Russian air force are stationed at Hanoi’s international airport. These aircraft are known to carry vehicles for transporting Putin in countries that he visits.