North Korea’s Support for Russia’s Military Actions
In a show of solidarity, North Korean leader Kim Jong Un reaffirmed his unwavering support for Russia’s military actions in Ukraine during a recent meeting with Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov. This engagement, reported by North Korea’s state media on Sunday, reflects a deepening relationship between the two countries as they bolster their military and political alliances amidst ongoing conflict.
Lavrov’s visit marks a significant moment, as it follows a series of high-profile meetings between officials from both nations. Notably, North Korea has contributed thousands of troops to assist in the Russian offensive in the Kursk region, alongside supplying artillery shells and missiles to the Russian forces. The collaborative efforts highlight the growing ties between Pyongyang and Moscow.
Warm Atmosphere During Talks
According to the state-run KCNA news agency, Kim Jong Un and Sergei Lavrov met in Wonsan, a coastal city renowned for its newly opened resort, symbolizing North Korea’s key developmental projects. Their encounter, described as taking place in an atmosphere of “warm comradely trust,” included a heartfelt handshake and embrace, as captured in a video shared by the Russian foreign ministry.
During the discussions, Kim expressed North Korea’s readiness to “unconditionally support and encourage all measures taken by the Russian leadership” in addressing the ongoing Ukrainian crisis. He emphasized his belief in the Russian army’s eventual success, while commending President Putin’s strong leadership.
A Focus on Future Cooperation
Further dialogue included discussions on critical matters related to the implementation of agreements established during the historic DPRK-Russia summit talks held in June 2024. Lavrov communicated President Putin’s desire to maintain close contact with North Korea as relations continue to evolve.
Following the talks, Lavrov proceeded to Beijing for a meeting with the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation Foreign Ministers’ Council, thereby continuing his diplomatic engagements in the region. Prior to this visit, Russia had announced plans to commence bi-weekly flights between Moscow and Pyongyang, with Lavrov highlighting Wonsan’s potential as a prominent tourist destination.
Strengthening Bilateral Ties
The meeting between Lavrov and North Korean Foreign Minister Choe Son Hui, which preceded Kim’s discussions, illustrates the strengthening bilateral relationship. KCNA reported these interactions as evolving into an “invincible alliance,” amid statements of mutual support for security measures from both nations.
During their discussions, Moscow reaffirmed its backing of North Korea in its efforts to secure state safety, while Choe expressed complete support for Russia’s initiatives related to the underlying issues of the Ukrainian conflict.
Casualties and Allied Ties
In a notable acknowledgment during the ministerial discussions, Lavrov expressed gratitude to North Korean soldiers assisting Russia, referring to them as “heroic.” Reports indicate that approximately 600 North Korean soldiers have lost their lives in the conflict, with thousands more injured. This stark reality underscores the significant impact of North Korea’s military involvement in the ongoing war.
North Korea confirmed its military support for Russia in April, acknowledging the casualties among its troops. This collaboration showcases a commitment to counteracting external pressures, with both nations vowing to work together against hegemonic ambitions that exacerbate regional tensions.
Commitment Against External Pressures
Both North Korea and Russia’s foreign ministries emphasized the need to jointly confront the hegemonic aspirations of external actors, which are seen as escalating tensions in Northeast Asia and the broader Asia-Pacific region. This commitment illustrates their determination to support one another amid international sanctions and political isolation.
The countries had also formalized a military cooperation agreement last year that included a mutual defense clause during a rare visit from President Putin to Pyongyang, cementing their alliance in light of shared geopolitical challenges.
