Official announcements from Russian or North Korean defense ministries or credible news reports

Russia and North Korea Expand Military Ties as Kim Pledges Support in Ukraine War

Nov 29, 2024, 12:16 PM

Russian Defense Minister Andrei Belousov arrived in North Korea on an unannounced official visit, where he held talks with North Korean leader Kim Jong Un and other military and political leaders. Belousov stated that military cooperation between Russia and North Korea is rapidly expanding, referring to the comprehensive strategic partnership treaty aimed at reducing the risk of war in Northeast Asia. He described North Korea as a 'good neighbor and long-standing friend.' Kim Jong Un expressed unwavering support for Russia's actions in Ukraine, accusing the United States and Western countries of 'direct military intervention' by supplying Ukraine with long-range weapons. Kim affirmed that North Korea's army would support Russia's policy of defending its sovereignty and territory.