North Korean Leader Kim Jong Un Reaffirms Support for Russia in Ukraine War

North Korean leader Kim Jong Un has expressed continued support for Russia’s war in Ukraine during meetings with Sergei Shoigu. They discussed military collaboration and reaffirmed a mutual defense treaty. North Korea is supplying military support, while Russia may offer economic and military assistance in return. Tensions continue to rise with ongoing missile tests and military drills.

North Korean leader Kim Jong Un has vocalized his steadfast support for Russia’s military actions in Ukraine during discussions with Sergei Shoigu, the Secretary of Russia’s Security Council. This meeting, which took place in Pyongyang, was reported by North Korean state media on March 22. Reports indicate that North Korea may be engaged in sending additional troops to Russia amid the ongoing conflict, reflecting significant military collaboration between the two nations.

During the talks, Kim and Shoigu reviewed numerous topics including the conflict in Ukraine, engagements with the Trump administration, and the security situation on the Korean Peninsula. Both leaders reaffirmed their commitment to a mutual defense treaty established during a summit in Pyongyang last year, which includes provisions for mutual assistance in the face of aggression.

Kim articulated his nation’s ongoing support for Russia in maintaining sovereignty and national security. Shoigu communicated a message from President Vladimir Putin, expressing gratitude for North Korea’s solidarity regarding key geopolitical matters, especially concerning Ukraine. The discussions, however, did not reveal whether new agreements were established during the meeting.

North Korea has been reported to supply substantial amounts of conventional weapons to Russia and previously sent thousands of troops to aid in the conflict. Estimates suggest that between 1,000 to 3,000 additional North Korean soldiers may have been deployed. South Korea, the United States, and other nations suspect that North Korea benefits from military and economic support from Russia in exchange for its military contributions.

Some observers speculate that Shoigu’s visit could be a precursor to Kim’s anticipated trip to Russia, as Putin had extended an invitation during his previous visit to Pyongyang. In prior meetings, Kim has showcased North Korean armaments as part of their ongoing military cooperation. Additionally, North Korea recently conducted tests on new anti-aircraft missiles, further demonstrating its military capabilities amid escalating tensions with the US and South Korea during joint military exercises.

In summary, Kim Jong Un’s recent discussions with Sergei Shoigu reaffirm North Korea’s unwavering support for Russia amidst the ongoing war in Ukraine. The meeting highlights the deepening military and strategic cooperation between the two nations, with North Korea providing both weapons and personnel. As military activities escalate, the relationship strengthens, underpinning their mutual defense commitments. The dynamics of this partnership could have significant implications on regional security and international relations.

Original Source: www.channelnewsasia.com