Russia–China Alignment: Putin and Xi issued a sweeping joint vision in Beijing, pushing a “highest level in history” partnership and a shared challenge to Western-led order. China–North Korea Diplomacy: South Korea says Xi is set to visit Pyongyang next week, potentially as a mediator between Xi, Trump, and Kim Jong Un—while Pyongyang keeps tightening its own posture. North Korea Military Signals: Kim held a division-brigade commanders’ meeting tied to a broader revamp, with renewed focus on turning the southern border into an “impregnable fortress.” North Korea–Russia Infrastructure: Satellite imagery shows a new high-capacity Tumen River bridge nearing completion, with customs and checkpoints rushing to meet an opening this summer. Sanctions & Tech Pressure: A U.S. ambassador nominee for Seoul, Michelle Steel, vowed to back “equal treatment” for American firms, while U.S. lawmakers push tighter rules on foreign-linked payment tech and Chinese-connected vehicles. Currency Stress: North Korea’s won reportedly jumped nearly 80% vs the dollar this year, underscoring economic strain. Cyber Threats: Reports warn AI could turbocharge hacking, with North Korea-linked groups highlighted for major digital theft.