Vladimir Putin was pleased with Kim Jong for involving the war with Ukraine. What promised the North Korean dictator promised
Kim Jong one and Vladimir Putin, in Beijing. Photo: Kremlin Press Service / AFP / Profimedia
In a discussion with Vladimir Putin, in Beijing, the Phenian leader said he is willing to do “everything he can to help” Russia, writes Reuters.
Russian President Vladimir Putin thanks Kim Jong Wednesday for the courage of the North Korean soldiers in the fight against Ukrainian forces.
“At your initiative, as it is known, your special forces participated in the release of the Kursk region,” Putin told Kim during a meeting in China. “Your soldiers fought with courage and heroism,” the Kremlin leader added.
North Korean troops helped Russia earn this year to push Ukrainian forces in the Kursk region, located in western Russia.
“I would like to point out that we will never forget the sacrifices that your armed forces and your military families have made,” Putin said.
“On behalf of the Russian people, I would like to thank you for participating in the common struggle,” Putin said. “Please convey the hottest words of gratitude to all citizens of the Korean People's Republic,” he added.
On the other hand, the North Korean leader told Putin that the cooperation between the two countries has intensified considerably since the signing of the partnership treaty in June 2024 and that he is willing to do “everything he can to help” Russia.
Kim made these statements at a bilateral meeting with Putin in Beijing, in the margin of a ceremony to commemorate the anniversary of Japan's official capitulation in World War II.
2,000 North Korean soldiers killed
South Korea spying agency estimates that approximately 2,000 soldiers sent by North Korea to fight for Russia were killed in the fight, a South Korean MP, Lee Seong-Kweun.
According to Western and South Korean intelligence services, North Korea has sent over 10,000 soldiers to Russia last year-mainly in the Kursk region, which borders Ukraine.
XI Jinping praises China “unstoppable”, at a historical military parade. It is the first time that Chinese, Russian and North Korean leaders meet
The Phenian provided Russia and artillery, missiles and missile systems.
South Korean officials believe that North Korea is preparing to send another 6,000 soldiers.
“It is estimated that, from the recent plan of 6,000 soldiers, about 1,000 arrived in Russia,” the parliamentarian said.
The details provided by Russia or North Korea regarding the development of troops, which would have started in November 2024, were limited.
The Phenian only acknowledged that he sent soldiers to Russia in April, when he admitted that some of his soldiers were killed in battle.
In July, North Korean leader Kim Jong was met with the relatives of the fallen soldiers to honor their death and to present condolences.
