North Korea’s Kim voices full support for Russia in National Day message

North Korean leader Kim Jong Un has reaffirmed his country's close ties with Russia, sending a congratulatory message to President Vladimir Putin on Russia’s National Day and expressing full support for Moscow’s domestic and foreign policies, according to state news agency KCNA.

KCNA reported Kim as saying relations between the two countries are growing stronger and evolving into a formal alliance based on their comprehensive strategic partnership treaty.

Kim pledges continued solidarity with Moscow

In his message, Kim pledged that North Korea would “always be with” Russia, highlighting the deepening cooperation between Pyongyang and Moscow.

The statement reflects the increasingly close relationship between the two countries, which has expanded significantly since the start of Russia’s war in Ukraine.

Officials mark Russia’s National Day

To commemorate Russia’s national day, Russian and North Korean officials took part in ceremonies honouring fallen Soviet soldiers.

KCNA reported that delegations visited a monument and cemetery dedicated to Soviet Army fighters, while the Russian Embassy in Pyongyang hosted a reception attended by senior North Korean officials.

The events underscored the growing diplomatic and symbolic ties between the two nations.

Military cooperation draws international scrutiny

Relations between Russia and North Korea have intensified amidst reports that Pyongyang has provided military support for Moscow’s campaign in Ukraine.

North Korea has deployed thousands of troops to assist Russian forces, according to officials and intelligence assessments from several countries.

Meanwhile, the United States and South Korea have accused North Korea of supplying artillery shells, missiles, and other military equipment for use in the conflict. Both Moscow and Pyongyang have denied allegations of weapons transfers.

Strategic partnership expands

The two countries signed a comprehensive strategic partnership treaty during Putin’s visit to Pyongyang in June 2024, formalising closer cooperation across political, economic and security sectors.

As part of that growing partnership, Russia and North Korea also agreed to construct a key land bridge linking the two countries.

New bridge could boost trade

The bridge, which is expected to be completed on 19 June, is seen as a major infrastructure project that could strengthen economic ties between Moscow and Pyongyang.

Analysts say the connection may increase trade and transportation links while potentially giving North Korea additional opportunities to bypass international sanctions imposed over its nuclear weapons and ballistic missile programmes.

The project is expected to become another symbol of the rapidly expanding partnership between the two countries as they continue to deepen cooperation despite growing international criticism.

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News North Korea Russia Kim Jong Un Russian President Vladimir Putin