North Korean leader Kim Jong-un has responded to a congratulatory message from Russian President Vladimir Putin on Korea's Liberation Day, calling him a "friendly friend" and expressing support for Russia's actions in Ukraine. Kim sent the message on August 15, which marks the anniversary of Korea's liberation from Japanese colonial rule in 1945, according to the official Korean Central News Agency. In his message, Putin congratulated Kim and the people of North Korea on the occasion, saying that Russia values its relations with North Korea. Kim responded by saying that he treasures the "comradely friendship" with Putin and considers him a "friendly friend". Kim also expressed his support for Russia's actions in Ukraine, saying that he highly appreciates Russia's "consistent and unwavering" stance on protecting its sovereignty and security. The exchange of messages comes as North Korea has been strengthening its ties with Russia, while trying to expand its diplomatic outreach amid international isolation over its nuclear and missile programs. North Korea has so far maintained a neutral stance on the Ukraine issue, but its support for Russia is seen as a way to strengthen its alliance with Moscow. The two countries have been cooperating on various issues, including trade and defense, and have also been exchanging high-level visits. In July, Russian Defense Minister Sergei Shoigu visited Pyongyang, where he and North Korean Defense Minister Kang Sun-nam agreed to strengthen military cooperation. The visit was seen as a significant development in the two countries' relations, which have been growing closer in recent years. North Korea has been facing increasing international pressure over its nuclear and missile programs, and has been seeking to strengthen its alliances with countries like Russia and China. The country has conducted several missile tests this year, including an intercontinental ballistic missile test in July. The tests have been condemned by the international community, and have led to increased tensions in the region. Despite the international pressure, North Korea has continued to pursue its nuclear and missile programs, citing the need for self-defense. The country's leader Kim Jong-un has said that the development of the country's nuclear capabilities is a top priority. Kim has also said that the country will continue to take steps to strengthen its defense capabilities, including the development of new missiles and other military technologies. The situation in North Korea remains a major concern for the international community, with many countries calling for the country to abandon its nuclear and missile programs. However, North Korea has so far refused to engage in talks on denuclearization, saying that it will not abandon its nuclear program unless the United States and other countries lift their sanctions. The standoff over North Korea's nuclear and missile programs continues, with no clear resolution in sight.
North Korean Vice Chairman Kim Jong-un sent a message of regards to Russian President Vladimir Putin on the occasion of Korea's Liberation Day, thereby reinforcing the solid North-South Korea relations. On May 15, Jang Jin-young, a spokesperson for the North Korean Central Committee, reported that Kim delivered a message of deep respect to Putin on the 81st anniversary of Liberation Day.
Kim referred to Putin as "a friendly comrade" and emphasized the sacrifices made by Soviet-era soldiers who fought for the liberation of Korea. He highlighted the shared history between the two nations, stating that the joint struggle and friendship between the Korean and Russian peoples are the foundation of their current and future cooperation.
Kim expressed confidence that both countries would achieve their goals of protecting national sovereignty and safety, as well as upholding territorial integrity, under the wise leadership of Russia under President Putin's guidance.
On the same day, a large Russian tanker, the Palada, arrived at the birthplace of Kim Il-sung, the founder of North Korea. The vessel docked at the birthplace on May 15. The message reported that Russian crew members and trainees embarked on a goodwill visit to the birthplace, where they visited statues of Kim Il-sung and Kim Jong-il, presenting them with flowers.
Photos of the crew, trainees, and the Palada were also published. The news highlighted the strengthening of the bond between North Korea and Russia, as both nations showcased their strengthened relations during the Liberation Day celebrations. Russian President Putin confirmed, on May 14, that the two countries would continue to work together on joint projects, including economic, social, and military cooperation.
The "comprehensive strategic partnership agreement" signed between the two nations last year marks the third year of annual visits to the Liberation Tower, a monument honoring Soviet soldiers, by Kim Jong-un, his wife Ri Sol-ju, and their daughter Hyo-jong.
Written by urgent.news from Hankyoreh's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
