North Korean leader Kim Jong-un sent a congratulatory message to Russian President Vladimir Putin on the occasion of Russia's 81st Victory Day, reaffirming Pyongyang's commitment to deepening the alliance-like partnership with Moscow.
North Korean state media reported that Kim sent his “sincerest congratulations” to Putin, expressing satisfaction with the “brilliant history of independence, dignity, peace and prosperity” shared by the two countries and pledging top priority to their “alliance-like comprehensive strategic partnership.” Kim also stated that Pyongyang would “always faithfully fulfill the obligations under the inter-state treaty,” signed with Russia in June 2024, which revived elements of their Cold War-era military alliance. Following the treaty, North Korea deployed around 15,000 combat troops to support Russia’s war against Ukraine.
On the same day, Russia’s acting ambassador to North Korea, Vladimir Topeha, visited the Liberation Tower in Pyongyang to honor Soviet soldiers killed in the 1950-53 Korean War. Ambassadors from China, Brazil, Cuba, and Vietnam joined North Korean officials, with Pyongyang providing honor guards and military bands.
