Kim Jong Un Congratulates Putin on Russia's Day
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- Kim Jong Un sent a congratulatory message to Russian President Vladimir Putin on Russia’s National Day, voicing full support for Moscow’s domestic and foreign policies.
- Kim said ties between North Korea and Russia were strengthening into an alliance based on a comprehensive strategic partnership treaty, pledging to “always be with” Russia.
- Russian and North Korean officials visited a monument and cemetery of fallen Soviet Army fighters to mark Russia’s National Day, and Russia’s embassy hosted a reception for North Korean senior officials.
- The two countries signed the strategic partnership treaty during Putin’s visit to Pyongyang in June 2024 and agreed to open a key land bridge linking the two nations, due to be completed on June 19.
- The bridge could facilitate trade and give North Korea additional means to circumvent international sanctions over its nuclear and missile programmes, analysts say.
- Washington and Seoul have accused Pyongyang of supplying artillery shells, missiles and other military materials for use in Ukraine, though Moscow and Pyongyang deny arms transfers.
- North Korea has deployed thousands of troops to support Russia’s war in Ukraine.
Why it matters: The pledge deepens North Korea’s alignment with Russia, giving Moscow a reliable political ally as it faces Western sanctions, while the upcoming land bridge could boost trade and help Pyongyang evade restrictions on its nuclear and missile programs, affecting regional security dynamics.
