Russia has put into operation the first road bridge across the border with North Korea. The opening of the new crossing was announced on Monday by the Prime Minister of Russia, Mikhail Mishustin. The bridge spans the border river Tumannaya. Its length is about one kilometer, and traffic is organized in two lanes. Along with the bridge, a new vehicle checkpoint has started operating, through which, according to the Russian government, up to 300 vehicles per day will be able to pass. Mikhail Mishustin participated in the opening ceremony via video link. According to him, the new bridge is expected to promote the development of trade, economic, scientific, technological, and cultural ties between the two countries.  This is the first case where Russia and North Korea have established direct road communication. Until now, the countries were connected only by a railway bridge over the Tumannaya River and air communication. The construction of the new crossing was agreed upon in 2024, and now the project has been completed and put into operation. The opening of the bridge occurs against the backdrop of a noticeable rapprochement between Moscow and Pyongyang. In recent years, cooperation between the two countries has significantly intensified, especially after North Korea began to support Russia in the war against Ukraine. For carriers and logistics companies, the new crossing opens an additional land route between the two countries. At the same time, its significance goes beyond transportation infrastructure and is seen as another step in strengthening bilateral relations. Thus, after the launch of the road bridge, Russia and North Korea have gained another permanent communication channel, complementing the already existing railway and air links.
