Kim Jong Un Signals Loyalty to Russia Amid Ukraine Conflict

• Kim Jong Un declares North Korea’s unconditional support to Russia.
• The DPRK’s commitment focuses on addressing the Ukrainian crisis.
• North Korea and Russia have enhanced their military partnership agreements.
• Kim Jong Un’s pledge follows a strategic partnership agreement signed in 2024.
• North Korea prepares to send up to 30,000 soldiers to support Russia.

Kim Jong Un Affirms Support for Russia in Ukraine Conflict

Kim Jong Un has made a noteworthy declaration of unwavering support for Russia amidst the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, as articulated during a meeting with Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov. The North Korean leader expressed that the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea (DPRK) is prepared to unconditionally back and promote all actions taken by Moscow aimed at addressing what he referred to as the root causes of the Ukrainian crisis. This was reported by the state-run Korean Central News Agency (KCNA), underscoring North Korea’s stance regarding the geopolitical situation affecting the region. The meeting, which took place in Wonsan on July 12, highlighted the cooperative spirit between the two nations as they reaffirmed their strategic partnership.

Strengthening Military Ties Between North Korea and Russia

The framework for this cooperation was solidified with the signing of the Strategic Partnership Agreement in June 2024, which includes provisions for mutual defense between North Korea and Russia. Since then, there has been a notable strengthening of military ties between the two nations. Reports suggest that North Korea is poised to dispatch a significant number of troops — as many as 30,000 soldiers — to support Russian operations in Ukraine. This deployment is viewed as a concrete move reflecting the deepening alliance between Moscow and Pyongyang, further evidenced by Lavrov’s remarks about North Korean participation in military engagements in the Kursk region, illustrating the supportive dynamics that have emerged from their bilateral relations.

In summary, Kim Jong Un’s explicit expression of loyalty to Russia highlights North Korea’s commitment to Moscow amidst the Ukraine crisis. The partnership, rooted in a mutual defense agreement, has led to increased military cooperation, with North Korea poised to send thousands of troops to support Russian efforts. This dynamic indicates a strengthening alliance that has significant implications for the unfolding geopolitical landscape.