Pyongyang: In a symbolic gesture of solidarity, North Korean leader Kim Jong Un has conveyed unwavering support to Russian President Vladimir Putin in a letter marking Victory Day, commemorating the Soviet Union’s triumph over Nazi Germany. State news agency KCNA reported the exchange on Thursday, highlighting the 79th anniversary of the war’s end.
Celebrated on May 9, Victory Day holds profound significance for Russia, yet it comes amidst strained relations with the West, exacerbated by its military actions in Ukraine.
“I express firm support and solidarity with the sacred cause of Russia, hoping that you and the brave Russian army and people would win fresh victory in the struggle to defeat the imperialists’ hegemonic policy,” Kim conveyed in his missive to Putin, as reported by KCNA.
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Accusations from the US and other nations have surfaced, alleging North Korea’s provision of weapons to aid Russia in its conflict with Ukraine, which commenced with Russia’s invasion in February 2022. Despite these claims, both Russia and North Korea have refuted such allegations, while simultaneously pledging to deepen their military ties.
Notably, a report from United Nations sanctions monitors presented to a Security Council committee revealed debris from a missile that landed in the Ukrainian city of Kharkiv on January 2, originating from a North Korean Hwasong-11 series ballistic missile.
