North Korean leader Kim Jong-un held talks with Russian President Vladimir Putin on Sept. 3 last year after attending China’s 80th Victory Day commemorations. Rodong Sinmun/News1
North Korean leader Kim Jong-un sent a congratulatory message to Russian President Vladimir Putin marking the 81st anniversary of Russia’s victory in World War II, reaffirming the alliance between the two countries.
According to a report by the Korean Central News Agency on Friday, Kim said in his message to Putin that he “reaffirms the position of the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea (DPRK) government to attach the utmost importance to the comprehensive strategic partnership and to continuously elevate and develop it.” The message also stated that North Korea is “always satisfied with and proud of” relations with Russia.
Kim emphasized his closeness with Putin by addressing him as “the closest comrade,” “respected Comrade Putin,” and, dropping his title, “dear Vladimir Vladimirovich.” In the message, Kim said, “Pyongyang is always with you and the fraternal Russian people,” adding, “I wish only victory and glory on the road ahead for the Russian people.”
North Korea and Russia have been expanding cooperation across multiple areas since signing the Treaty on Comprehensive Strategic Partnership in 2024. Around the first anniversary of the liberation of Kursk on April 26, a series of Russian ministerial-level officials visited North Korea. Kim, however, did not attend Russia’s Victory Day ceremony.