SEOUL, Dec 31, (V7N) – North Korean leader Kim Jong Un has expressed deep admiration for Russian President Vladimir Putin, referring to him as his "dearest friend and comrade" in a New Year's letter lauding the close ties between their nations, state media reported Tuesday.

The message highlights the strengthening of political, military, and cultural ties between North Korea and Russia, particularly following Moscow's invasion of Ukraine in 2022.

Kim extended "warm greetings" to the Russian people and military, emphasizing the "fraternal" bond between the two nations, the Korean Central News Agency (KCNA) stated.

Strengthening Alliances

In June 2024, the two leaders signed a historic defense pact obligating mutual military assistance in the event of an invasion, which took effect earlier this month.

Kim's letter reaffirmed his desire to "design and push ahead with new projects" following their "meaningful journey in 2024," and expressed hope for a "great victory" for Russia in its campaign against "neo-Nazism" in Ukraine.

The United States and South Korea have accused North Korea of sending over 10,000 soldiers to assist Russia in the conflict, with experts suggesting that Kim is seeking advanced military technology and battlefield experience in return.

Putin's Message to Kim

In a reciprocal gesture, Russian state media reported last week that President Putin sent a New Year's message to Kim, praising the enduring ties between their nations.

This exchange underscores the growing strategic partnership between North Korea and Russia, raising concerns among Western powers about the implications for regional and global security.

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