Putin Affirms Strategic Ties with North Korea Amid Tensions

In a pivotal meeting held in the Kremlin, President Vladimir Putin of Russia extended a message through North Korean Foreign Minister Choe Son Hui to assure Kim Jong Un that bilateral relations between Russia and North Korea are progressing as intended. Putin highlighted the strengthening ties by referring to a strategic partnership treaty signed last year which encompasses a mutual defense agreement.

The treaty has seen North Korea supplying military personnel and arms to Russia, supporting its ongoing conflict in Ukraine. This collaboration was further discussed during a celebratory event in Beijing, where both leaders explored future prospects. Putin requested Choe to convey his best wishes to Kim as Ukraine estimates significant troop involvement from North Korea.

Additionally, Choe engaged in discussions with Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov to address bilateral relations and the evolving geopolitical dynamics in Northeast Asia. Both nations echoed the sentiment that increasing tensions are driven by the actions of the United States and its allies, as per statements from the Russian Foreign Ministry.