North Korean leader Kim Jong Un has expressed “firm support and solidarity” for Russia in his congratulatory message to Russian President Vladimir Putin on Victory Day, marking the 79th anniversary of the Soviet Union’s victory over Nazi Germany in World War Two. State news agency KCNA reported the message on Thursday.
Victory Day is a significant event in Russia, commemorating the defeat of Nazi Germany and honoring the sacrifices made by the Soviet Union during World War Two. This year’s celebrations come as Russia’s relations with the West continue to deteriorate over its invasion of Ukraine and ongoing military operations against Ukraine’s Western-backed forces.
In his letter, Kim Jong Un expressed solidarity with Russia’s struggle against what he termed “imperialists’ hegemonic policy.” He stated, “I express firm support and solidarity with the sacred cause of Russia, hoping that you and the brave Russian army and people would win fresh victory in the struggle to defeat the imperialists’ hegemonic policy.”
The message reflects the alignment of North Korea with Russia amidst growing geopolitical tensions and criticisms from the international community over Russia’s invasion of Ukraine in February 2022.
Both the United States and other Western countries have accused North Korea of providing weapons to Russia for use against Ukraine, allegations that both Moscow and Pyongyang have denied. Despite the denials, there has been a commitment from both sides to deepen military relations. Last year, Russia and North Korea pledged to strengthen their military ties, signaling an evolving strategic partnership.
The United Nations sanctions monitors recently reported that missile debris found in the Ukrainian city of Kharkiv on January 2 originated from a North Korean Hwasong-11 series ballistic missile. This finding further fueled suspicions about North Korea’s possible role in supporting Russia’s military efforts in Ukraine.
The expression of support from Kim Jong Un underscores the alignment between Russia and North Korea against a backdrop of increasing global tensions and the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. The evolving relationship between the two nations raises concerns among Western countries about the potential for further military collaboration and the impact it may have on regional and global stability.
