Russian President Vladimir Putin has said the US will have to offer North Korea strong security guarantees if it wants to reach a deal on denuclearisation.
In an interview broadcast today on Chinese television, Putin said that he hopes that the meeting between US President Donald Trump and North Korean leader Kim Jong Un next week will bring positive results.
He hailed North Korea's "unprecedented" steps, including the suspension of nuclear and missile tests, as well as the destruction of nuclear testing facilities, as an important sign of goodwill.
Putin also praised Trump for his "courageous and mature" decision to meet with Kim, but added that Pyongyang would want "absolute security guarantees" to give up its nuclear program.
"It cannot be otherwise, especially after the tragic events in Libya and Iraq," Putin said.
The Russian president expressed regret that the US and South Korea did not stop their military maneuvers.
Putin said Russia would offer to develop railway and gas pipeline projects involving both Koreas to help stabilize the region.
Bonus video:
