Anna Hartz
North Korea Pledges Troops and Weapons for Putin’s War
Russia is looking for friends wherever it can find them. One of the closest allies right now is North Korea. And this week, that friendship was put on full display.
On Wednesday, North Korean leader Kim Jong Un met with Sergei Shoigu, the head of Russia’s Security Council, according to Hotnews.
Shoigu had traveled to Pyongyang for talks. During their meeting, Kim made it clear that North Korea stands with Russia on what he called “all crucial international issues,” including the war in Ukraine.
Believes Russia Will Win
According to North Korea’s state news agency, Kim said that North Korea gives Russia its “unconditional support.”
He also said he believes Russia will win what he called a “sacred cause” for justice.
The two leaders talked about more than Ukraine. They also discussed the Korean peninsula. Both sides agreed to keep building a closer relationship over time.
Shoigu had also visited North Korea back in March. His second visit this year shows just how quickly the ties between the two countries are growing stronger.
North Korea Offers Help with the War
North Korea has done more than offer words. The country has sent weapons to help the Russian army.
It has also reportedly sent troops to help Russia fight in Ukraine’s Kursk region. That area is still partly controlled by Ukraine.
Last year, Russian President Vladimir Putin made a rare visit to Pyongyang. During that visit, the two countries signed a mutual defense pact.
That means if one is attacked, the other could step in to help.
The agreement and recent visits are signs of what many call a deepening alliance.
Both countries are heavily sanctioned and isolated by much of the West. Their growing partnership is raising concerns in Washington, Seoul, and across Europe.
For Russia, the support is helpful as the war drags on. For North Korea, it’s a chance to boost its global relevance and get closer to a powerful partner.