North Korean leader Kim Jong Un said North Korea and Russia are united by the “blood” shed in war, in a New Year message to Russian President Vladimir Putin that underscored rapidly deepening ties between the two countries.
Message to Moscow
In the message, released by North Korean state media, Kim praised what he described as a bond forged through shared struggle and sacrifice. He expressed confidence that relations between Pyongyang and Moscow would continue to strengthen, calling Russia a close partner in confronting common challenges.
The language marked one of Kim’s strongest public affirmations of solidarity with Russia since the start of the war in Ukraine.
Deepening military cooperation
Kim’s remarks come as North Korea and Russia expand cooperation in defiance of international sanctions. Western officials and intelligence agencies say Pyongyang has supplied Moscow with weapons, including artillery shells and missiles, for use in Ukraine, claims both countries have denied.
Russia has also signaled support for North Korea on diplomatic and economic fronts, including at the United Nations, where Moscow has opposed tighter sanctions on Pyongyang.
Strategic context
The partnership reflects a broader alignment among countries facing Western pressure. Analysts say both sides see benefits in closer ties: Russia gains military supplies and political backing, while North Korea gains economic support, diplomatic cover, and potential access to advanced technology.
The rhetoric of shared sacrifice reinforces the narrative of a wartime alliance, even as neither country has formally acknowledged direct military coordination on the battlefield.
International reaction
The growing relationship has alarmed the United States and its allies, who argue that cooperation between Russia and North Korea undermines global efforts to enforce sanctions and increases instability in both Europe and East Asia.
Washington has accused both governments of violating UN Security Council resolutions and has warned of additional sanctions if cooperation continues.
