North Korean leader Kim Jong Un has pledged to “unconditionally support” all policies and decisions of Russian President Vladimir Putin, a move that further underscores the strengthening alliance between Pyongyang and Moscow amid ongoing global tensions.
In a letter published on Friday by the Korean Central News Agency (KCNA), Kim described his relationship with Putin as one of “true comradely relations” and hailed ties between North Korea and Russia as the “most precious.” He said close cooperation between the two countries would continue across a wide range of sectors.
“I will unconditionally respect and unconditionally support all your policies and decisions, and I have a willingness to always stand with you for the sake of you and your Russia,” Kim wrote, adding that his commitment would be “constant and permanent.”
The message was sent in response to a letter from Putin, though Russian state media did not disclose its contents.
Both leaders also exchanged New Year messages, during which Kim said North Korea and Russia had shared “blood, life and death” in the war in Ukraine. Putin, in turn, praised what he described as the “invincible friendship” between the two nations, according to KCNA.
South Korean and Western intelligence agencies have reported that North Korea has sent thousands of troops to fight alongside Russian forces as Moscow’s invasion of Ukraine enters its fourth year. Pyongyang is also believed to have supplied Russia with artillery shells, missiles and long-range rocket systems.
Analysts say North Korea has intensified missile testing in recent years to improve strike accuracy, strengthen deterrence against the United States and South Korea, and potentially test weapons that could later be exported to Russia.
In return for its support, Russia is believed to have provided North Korea with financial assistance, military technology, and critical supplies such as food and energy, further cementing a strategic partnership that has drawn increasing international scrutiny.