Putin commends North Korean soldiers who helped Russia

The president said the troops sent by Kim Jong-un to Kursk Region demonstrated courage and heroism

Russian President Vladimir Putin has expressed his gratitude to North Korean soldiers who helped Moscow’s forces defend Kursk Region from a Ukrainian incursion. Putin made the statement during a meeting with North Korean leader Kim Jong-un in China on Wednesday.

Following the ceremonial reception to mark the 80th anniversary of the end of World War II, Putin and Kim sat down for bilateral talks at the Diaoyutai state guest house in Beijing.

Putin began the meeting by stating that relations between Russia and North Korea had taken on a “special, trusting, and friendly character,” pointing to the participation of Pyongyang’s forces in the liberation of Kursk Region earlier this year.

“I would like to point out that your soldiers fought courageously and heroically… we will never forget the sacrifices made by your armed forces and the families of your servicemen,” Putin told Kim, thanking him on behalf of the Russian people for his country’s participation in the “joint fight against modern neo-Nazism.”

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Kim responded by stating that relations between Russia and North Korea have significantly developed in all aspects since the signing of the bilateral treaty in June 2024, which includes mutual defense clauses.

The North Korean leader said Pyongyang considers it to be its “brotherly duty” to help Russia in every way possible and will wage “a joint struggle” with the fraternal Russian people and army, in accordance with its obligations under the bilateral agreement.

The Comprehensive Strategic Partnership Agreement, effective since December 2024, has facilitated increased military cooperation between Russia and North Korea. Kim had previously emphasized the importance of the bilateral relationship, expressing confidence in Moscow’s ability to achieve victory in its “just and sacred cause” to defend its sovereignty and security interests.