Chinese state media described President Xi Jinping's visit to Pyongyang in June 2026 as a routine strengthening of ties. However, analysts suggest that the visit reflects underlying anxieties regarding China's influence over North Korea, particularly in light of recent geopolitical shifts involving Russia and Iran.
Key events leading up to Xi's visit include meetings between Iranian officials and Russian leaders in March 2024, and a U.S.-China military delegation meeting in May 2026 aimed at managing risks of escalation. Notably, North Korean leader Kim Jong Un announced plans to expand his nuclear arsenal just days before Xi's arrival, which marked his first visit to North Korea in seven years.
Analysts have identified a group of nations—China, Russia, Iran, and North Korea—working together, but they caution that this alliance is fragile. North Korea has increasingly relied on Russia for military supplies, while China has been forced to remind Kim of their historical ties. This dynamic suggests that the relationship is not as stable as it may appear, with each country facing its own internal challenges.
The visit may indicate that China is concerned about maintaining its influence over North Korea, especially as Kim seeks to diversify his alliances. Analysts emphasize the importance of monitoring North Korea's actions in the coming weeks, as well as developments in U.S.-China relations and the situation in Iran. The overall consensus is that the alliance among these nations is driven by shared fears rather than a solid foundation of trust.