Russian President Vladimir Putin has sent a message to North Korean leader Kim Jong-un on the occasion of the country's National Liberation Day, stressing a “truly democratic world order” and an “unprecedented level” of partnership. The message came as a Russian official was in Pyongyang over the weekend to show cooperation.
Message Marks 81st Liberation Anniversary
The message, marking the 81st anniversary of Korea's liberation from Japanese “colonial rule”, was published on the Kremlin website on August 15. Putin noted that the holiday symbolises the "courage and resilience of Korean patriots and Red Army soldiers who fought side by side to liberate your country from Japanese colonial rule".
“It was in those harsh years that strong traditions of combat brotherhood and mutual assistance were forged, laying the foundations for the development of friendly, neighbourly ties between the Russian Federation and the DPRK,” Putin wrote.
Strategic Partnership Highlighted
The Russian leader emphasised that ties between Moscow and Pyongyang have “reached an unprecedented level of comprehensive strategic partnership”. Putin and Kim signed a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership Treaty in June 2024, which includes a mutual defence provision.
“Our countries are engaging in close cooperation across a wide range of areas and are coordinating their efforts to ensure regional security and stability,” he said. He concluded by expressing confidence in continued collaboration, stating: “I am confident that we will continue our constructive joint work on pressing issues on both the bilateral and international agendas – for the benefit of the Russian and Korean peoples, and in the interests of building a more just and truly democratic world order”.
Amid Ukraine Conflict and Regional Tensions
The exchange occurs against the backdrop of the conflict in Ukraine. North Korea has become a significant military supporter of Russia, reportedly supplying troops, missiles, and artillery ammunition. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy recently claimed that North Korean ballistic missiles were used in attacks against Ukraine and that Russia was preparing to receive additional North Korean troops.
The deepening ties come as Pyongyang issued threats to the US and Japan last week over joint military drills.
