Title: Putin hails North Korea’s support in Ukraine conflict, as military parade showcases advanced weaponry
Seoul, South Korea – In a speech to North Korean officials on Thursday, Russian President Vladimir Putin praised North Korea’s “firm support” for Russia’s war in Ukraine, stating that it strengthens the two countries’ resolve to counter Western nations. The remarks were reported by North Korean state media, indicating a growing alliance between the two nations.
Although Putin did not provide specific details about the nature of Pyongyang’s support, US officials had previously stated that North Korea was supplying Russia with millions of rockets and artillery shells for use in the Ukrainian conflict. This revelation demonstrates the depth of the relationship between the two nations.
“Our solidarity with Russia on key international issues highlights our common interests,” Putin stated in his speech, as reported by the state-run Korean Central News Agency (KCNA). The Russian leader’s remarks were made within a congratulatory message to North Korea on the 70th anniversary of the Korean War armistice, known as Victory Day in the North, emphasizing the historical ties between the two countries.
Putin specifically acknowledged the contribution of Soviet pilots during the Korean War, stating that they “carried out tens of thousands of combat flights” and played a significant role in defeating the enemy, according to KCNA. He further emphasized that this historical camaraderie serves as a solid foundation for the development of political, economic, and security relations between Russia and North Korea.
The speech coincided with a grand military parade in Pyongyang, where North Korea showcased two models of intercontinental ballistic missiles (ICBM). The Hwasong-18, North Korea’s newest solid-fueled ICBM with the potential to target the entire mainland United States, and the liquid-fueled Hwasong-17 were paraded through Kim Il Sung Square, capturing the attention of global observers.
As the parade unfolded, North Korea also conducted flights of new “strategic reconnaissance drones” and “multi-purpose attack drones,” further showcasing its military capabilities. The parade marked the culmination of visits by high-level delegations from Russia and China to Pyongyang. Russian Defense Minister Sergei Shoigu and Chinese Communist Party Politburo member Li Hongzhong stood alongside North Korean leader Kim Jong Un during the festivities.
The presence of these delegations and their engagement with North Korea’s military parade has raised concerns among world leaders. Analysts highlight China’s representation at the parade as a potential factor enabling Pyongyang’s threats to global security. Likewise, Kim’s meeting with Shoigu, who played a crucial role in Russia’s activities in Ukraine, has drawn attention to potential sanctions violations.
As tensions continue to escalate between Russia, North Korea, and the Western world, UN member states are urged to remain vigilant in observing and penalizing any violations of sanctions. The growing alliance between Russia and North Korea, as demonstrated by their military cooperation and shared interests, presents significant challenges for global security and stability.
As the Korean War armistice reaches its 70th anniversary, concerns are mounting over the long-term implications of this growing partnership and the advanced weaponry on display during the military parade. International leaders are closely monitoring the situation to ensure the preservation of regional peace and stability.