김정은, 광복절 축전 푸틴에 “친근한 벗” 답전…우크라전 지지도
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.
