Putin Celebrates Strong Ties with North Korea in New Year Message

Russia’s President Vladimir Putin expressed a strong endorsement of the relationship with North Korea in a New Year letter to leader Kim Jong Un, referring to their ties as an “invincible friendship.” The message, reported by state media on December 25, highlighted North Korea’s military contributions to Russia’s ongoing conflict in Ukraine, portraying this collaboration as a testament to their solidarity.

In his letter, received in Pyongyang last week, Putin emphasized the significant role of North Korean soldiers supporting Moscow’s efforts. According to intelligence assessments from South Korean and Western agencies, North Korea has dispatched over 10,000 soldiers to Russia, primarily to the Kursk region, along with artillery shells, missiles, and long-range rocket systems.

Putin remarked on the “heroic entry of soldiers of the Korean People’s Army into the battles for liberating the Kursk region from occupiers” and credited their involvement for demonstrating the “militant fraternity” between the two nations. He cited the fulfillment of a “historic treaty on comprehensive strategic partnership” signed during his visit to Pyongyang in June 2023. This agreement includes a mutual defense clause that commits both nations to provide military assistance should one face external aggression.

The strengthening of ties between Pyongyang and Moscow is seen as a move that will “contribute to establishing a just order of the multi-polar world,” according to Putin. Reports from Seoul’s intelligence agency indicate that approximately 2,000 North Korean soldiers deployed to support Russia have lost their lives in combat.

North Korea officially acknowledged its troop deployment in April and has since confirmed casualties among its soldiers. Following the announcement, Kim Jong Un has met with the families of the fallen troops, offering condolences for their “unbearable pain.” State media has also showcased emotional moments, including Kim embracing a soldier who had returned from duty, visibly moved by the reunion.

In light of the ongoing military collaboration, the South Korean government, under the conservative administration of Yoon Suk Yeol, indicated potential reconsideration of its arms policy toward Ukraine. Despite the initial signals, no concrete measures have been implemented regarding military support for Kyiv.

The deepening military and political relationship between North Korea and Russia signals a significant shift in regional dynamics and raises questions about the implications for international relations and security in the Asia-Pacific region. As both leaders celebrate their partnership, the global community remains attentive to the evolving situation and its potential impact on international stability.