Kim Says North Korea Fully Supports Russia In War Against Ukraine

Russian President Vladimir Putin was treated to a lavish welcome in North Korea as he is set to strengthen relations between Russia and the Asian power.

A red carpet welcome accompanied by roses, a cheering crowd, and ceremonial gunfire during a grand military parade thrilled Putin, who last visited the Asian power 24 years ago.

The last time Putin and North Korean leader Kim Jong Un met was in September 2023 in Moscow.

During summit talks at the Kumusan Palace, Putin thanked Kim for “your consistent and unwavering support for Russian policy, including in the Ukrainian direction.”

He further said that Russia is fighting the United States and its allies, whom it believes are hegemonic and imperialistic.

Related: North Korean Leader Kim Tells Military To Prepare For US Confrontation

Kim Jong Un expressed support for Russia in the war against Ukraine and said that North Korea-Russia relation is witnessing a period of “new high prosperity.”

“Now the situation in the world is becoming more complicated and changing rapidly,” the North Korean leader said. 

“In such a situation, we intend to further strengthen strategic communication with Russia, with the Russian leadership.”

Kim also said that North Korea “expresses full support and solidarity to the Russian government, army, and people in carrying out a special military operation in Ukraine to protect sovereignty, security interests, as well as territorial integrity.” 

The United States and South Korea have accused North Korea of supplying Russia with weapons to prosecute the war against Ukraine in exchange for food and military aid.

Putin and Kim have denied the allegations and have further strengthened ties between them.

After his short stay in Pyongyang, Putin is expected to visit long-time ally Vietnam for trade talks.