Why a tiny river on Russia’s border tests China’s ties with Kim Jong-un

The Tumen River, a natural border between China, North Korea, and Russia, is a significant point of contention in Sino-North Korean relations. A narrow section of the river between North Korea and Russia prevents China from accessing open waters. Beijing has consistently sought to persuade its neighbors to allow Chinese traffic through this waterway. Despite recent meetings between Chinese and North Korean leaders, the Tumen River was not mentioned in official statements following their summit. However, Moscow showed small positive signs regarding the waterway just last month.