Russian FM lauds N. Korea's troop deployment, pledges closer ties in Liberation Day letter

Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov commended North Korea's military assistance during Russia's conflict with Ukraine and pledged to strengthen bilateral relations between the two nations, according to North Korea's state media. The letter, penned on the 81st anniversary of Korea's liberation from Japanese colonial rule, highlighted the historical alliance between Russia and North Korea against Japanese militarism in 1945 and their joint efforts to hasten the end of World War II.

Lavrov emphasized that Russia and North Korea are now fighting together to establish a new global order based on multipolarity and national sovereignty. He expressed confidence that the two countries would continue to boost cooperation in various sectors in the future. The letter also mentioned that North Korean leader Kim Jong-un and Russian President Vladimir Putin exchanged letters marking the occasion, with Putin stating that bilateral relations had reached an unprecedented level as a comprehensive strategic partnership.

Both countries have been actively cooperating in all sectors and making concerted efforts to ensure regional security and stability since signing a mutual defense pact in June 2024.