Jens Asbjørn Bøgen
They will also be trained in finding titanium, gold, coal and more.
They will also be trained in finding titanium, gold, coal and more.
What is happening?
As global tensions over nuclear weapons grow, Russia is now training North Korean scientists to locate uranium and other valuable minerals.
The initiative is being led by Russian company Urangeo in collaboration with Irkutsk National Research Technical University (IRNITU).
Two-week program kicks off in Russia
The advanced two-week training program began earlier this month, focusing on solid mineral geology.
The course includes both classroom theory and hands-on practical modules, designed to bolster North Korea’s expertise in mineral exploration.
Inside Russia’s uranium training facilities
Participants will tour Urangeo’s prestigious facilities, known for their deep experience in uranium exploration and extraction.
The company also works with a range of other minerals, including gold, titanium, and coal, providing a comprehensive look at resource surveying and development.
A first-of-its-kind collaboration in geology
This marks the first formal joint geological initiative between Russia and North Korea.
A North Korean official based in Russia said the program reflects a growing alignment between the two nations in the areas of science and resource development.
Strengthening the Russia–North Korea alliance
The partnership between Vladimir Putin and Kim Jong-Un is clearly deepening.
Beyond geology, there have been other forms of collaboration—most controversially, North Korea has reportedly sent troops to support Russia’s war in Ukraine.
Already educating North Koreans
IRNITU’s Rector, Mikhail Kornyakov, noted the university already hosts North Korean students in disciplines like IT, engineering, and energy. This geology program is simply the latest step in a broader educational exchange, he argues.
Nuclear fears on the rise
This collaboration comes as North Korea faces mounting global criticism over its nuclear ambitions.
New satellite images have revealed fresh construction at nuclear enrichment facilities, such as Yongbyon, sparking fears of escalating conflict.
IAEA raises alarm
Director General of the International Atomic Energy Agency, Rafael Grossi, warned in June that secretive enrichment projects are a “serious concern” and breach multiple UN Security Council resolutions.
North Korea’s lack of transparency continues to alarm international watchdogs.
Two nuclear powers, one ambitious partnership
Both Russia and North Korea remain major players in the global nuclear landscape.
According to the International Campaign to Abolish Nuclear Weapons, Russia holds around 5,977 nuclear warheads.
North Korea is estimated to have about 50—but that number is widely expected to grow.
The stakes keep rising
While the geology training program might appear purely scientific, the broader context is deeply political.
As these two nuclear nations strengthen ties, the rest of the world watches with growing unease over what this could mean for future conflicts.
