North Korea’s Kim Jong Un Hails Putin As ‘Closest Comrade’ On Russian President’s Birthday.
North Korean leader Kim Jong Un has sent a birthday message to Russian President Vladimir Putin, referring to him as his “closest comrade” and expressing his hope that relations between their two nations will continue to strengthen. The message was delivered as Putin celebrated his 72nd birthday, with Kim emphasising that the bond between Pyongyang and Moscow would be elevated to “a new level.”
The deepening ties between North Korea and Russia have been a source of concern for Western powers, particularly since the start of Russia’s war in Ukraine. Kim’s message, as reported by North Korean state media KCNA, praised the “invincible and eternal” relationship between the two countries, a relationship that has been enhanced since Putin’s visit to Pyongyang in June this year.
Kim also made a commitment to further consolidating the foundation of the friendship between the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea (DPRK) and Russia, with both leaders promising to support each other against “aggression.” This agreement, signed earlier this year, has raised questions about what actions could trigger mutual assistance.
Amid these developments, North Korea has been accused of providing weapons to Russia for its ongoing conflict in Ukraine, in exchange for economic and technological support. Evidence suggests that North Korean missiles have been deployed by Russian forces in Ukraine. Meanwhile, Kim has vowed to accelerate his efforts to transform North Korea into a military superpower equipped with nuclear capabilities.
In a separate development, South Korean intelligence indicated signs that North Korea may have begun constructing a nuclear-powered submarine. Although the construction is in its early stages, further verification is required to confirm whether the submarine will indeed be nuclear-powered.
This growing alliance between North Korea and Russia is seen as an effort by both nations to counter the impact of international sanctions and create a network of partners outside the influence of the United States.
These developments continue to draw concern from the international community, as the relationship between these two nations deepens amidst geopolitical tensions.
