North Korea’s Kim vows full support for Putin

North Korea’s leader, Kim Jong Un, has pledged unconditional and permanent support for Russian President Vladimir Putin’s policies and decisions. 

This comes amid reports of North Korea dispatching thousands of troops to fight for Russia in Ukraine, as well as sending artillery shells, missiles, and long-range rocket systems.

According to reports, Pyongyang has increased missile testing in recent years — aimed, analysts say, at improving precision strike capabilities, challenging the United States and South Korea, and testing weapons before exporting them to Russia.

In a letter shared by the North’s state-run Korean Central News Agency (KCNA) to Putin, Kim expressed his willingness to stand with Russia, citing “true comradely relations” and describing their ties as “most precious ones”. 

“Close cooperation” between the two countries “will continue in various spheres in the future,” Kim wrote.

“I will unconditionally respect and unconditionally support all your policies and decisions, and I have a willingness to be always with you for the sake of you and your Russia.

“This choice will be constant and permanent,” he added.

North Korea’s Kim Jong Un letter was said to be a response to a letter from Russian President Vladimir Putin; however, state media didn’t reveal its contents. 

Kim also mentioned that North Korea and Russia have shared a deep bond, saying they’ve shared “blood, life and death” in the Ukraine war, during their New Year’s exchanges.

According to KCNA, Putin hailed the “invincible friendship” between the two countries, with Kim stating that their cooperation will continue in various spheres.

In return, Russia is reportedly providing North Korea with financial aid, military technology, and food and energy supplies. 

However, the KCNA did not reveal when or on what occasion Putin delivered the letter to Kim, although it is likely that the Russian president sent it on Kim’s birthday, which is known to be Jan 8.

Kim further noted that Putin’s letter was an expression of his friendship and trust in him and the North Korean people, voicing thanks and wishing greater success in all of Putin’s important undertakings.

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