Kim Jong Un, the leader of North Korea, sent a congratulatory message to Russian President Vladimir Putin on the occasion of the 81st anniversary of Victory Day, reaffirming his commitment to the North Korea-Russia treaty. Although there has been speculation about Kim's potential visit to Russia amid recent high-level exchanges between the two countries, the visit did not materialize.
According to reports from Yonhap News and the Rodong Sinmun on May 9, Kim stated in his message to President Putin, "I reaffirm that we will always be responsible for fulfilling the obligations of the treaty between our two countries." He reiterated his intention to continue cooperation based on the 'Comprehensive Strategic Partnership Treaty' signed last year.
The treaty, which was established during Putin's visit to North Korea in June 2024, includes provisions for military support if one side is attacked. North Korea began to deepen military cooperation with Russia by sending troops to Kursk, near the border with Ukraine, in October of the same year.
In his message, Kim described the North Korea-Russia relationship as one that is "writing a brilliant new chapter of independence, dignity, peace, and prosperity in accordance with the common ideals and aspirations of our peoples," expressing his satisfaction and pride in the partnership. He also reaffirmed the North Korean government's commitment to valuing and continuously enhancing the comprehensive strategic partnership.
Referring to Putin as a "most friendly comrade," Kim emphasized their close ties. He conveyed heartfelt congratulations to Putin, the Russian leadership, and the brotherly Russian people on the 81st anniversary of the Great Patriotic War victory, stating, "On behalf of the government and people of the Democratic People's Republic of Korea, I extend my most sincere congratulations to you and the entire Russian people."
Kim also paid tribute to the veterans of the past who fought valiantly against fascism, stating, "I express my profound respect for the previous generations of soldiers who, with indomitable courage and noble patriotism, defeated fascism and defended humanity's freedom and liberation, as well as world peace and security." This gesture comes as Russia uses Victory Day as a symbol of national unity, with North Korea also showing support for Russia's historical narrative through Kim's message.
Kim concluded by stating, "Pyongyang is always with you and the brotherly Russian people," and expressed his hopes for the Russian people to achieve only victory and glory in their future endeavors. He emphasized that Russia's great victory history will continue.
Recently, high-level contacts between North Korea and Russia have increased around the first anniversary of the 'Liberation of Kursk,' raising speculation about Kim's attendance at the Victory Day events. However, North Korea was not included in the list of attendees announced by Russia, and Kim's visit did not take place. Concerns over local safety issues, including drone attacks from Ukraine, have been suggested as factors influencing this outcome.
* This article has been translated by AI.
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