Edith Hejberg
Russian President Vladimir Putin and North Korean leader Kim Jong Un held a phone call on Tuesday, pledging to deepen cooperation between their countries.
The conversation came just days before Putin’s planned meeting with US President Donald Trump in Alaska on August 15, where Ukraine’s ongoing war will be a central topic.
Strengthening a Strategic Partnership
According to state media, both leaders reaffirmed their commitment to the “all-round” strategic partnership signed in 2024.
This agreement, which includes a mutual defence pact, has brought Moscow and Pyongyang into closer alignment amid global tensions.
Timing Before High-Stakes Talks
The phone call was strategically timed ahead of Putin’s upcoming summit with Trump.
The Alaska meeting is expected to focus on finding a resolution to the war in Ukraine, now in its fourth year since Russia’s full-scale invasion in February 2022.
North Korea’s Direct Role in the War
North Korea has played a significant role in supporting Russia’s military operations.
Reports say Pyongyang has sent over 10,000 troops to assist Russian forces in western Russia, as well as providing weapons and ammunition.
Aid in the Battle for the Kursk Region
Putin specifically thanked Kim Jong Un for his country’s contribution to what he described as the “liberation” of the Kursk region in western Russia.
He praised the “courage, heroism and spirit of sacrifice” of North Korean soldiers fighting alongside Russian troops.
Preparing for More Troop Deployments
South Korean intelligence believes North Korea is preparing to send more troops to bolster Russia’s campaign.
Such a move would further solidify Pyongyang’s position as one of Moscow’s few military allies in the Ukraine conflict.
Building on Shared Opposition to the West
The growing alliance between Russia and North Korea is rooted in shared opposition to Western-led sanctions and military pressure.
Since 2022, both countries have faced increasing isolation from the United States and its allies.
Military and Political Coordination
Officials say the call underscored not only military cooperation but also political coordination on global issues.
This includes aligning diplomatic strategies ahead of major international meetings, such as Putin’s upcoming talks with Trump.
A Partnership Tested in War
The relationship between Moscow and Pyongyang has been tested and strengthened by the realities of war.
North Korea’s visible and active participation in Russia’s military campaigns marks a rare instance of direct involvement in a European conflict.
What Comes After the Alaska Summit
The outcome of the Putin–Trump meeting could shape the future of the Russia–North Korea partnership.
For now, both leaders appear determined to continue building their alliance, regardless of Western disapproval.
