North Korea Russia Ukraine Kim Jong Un Pledges Military Support

North Korea and Russia deepen ties as Kim Jong Un praises joint efforts in Ukraine, highlights troop support, missile production, and military cooperation.
North Korean leader Kim Jong Un has highlighted the deepening relationship between Pyongyang and Moscow, describing their ties as forged through “shared blood, life, and death” in the ongoing war in Ukraine. The message came in a New Year greeting to Russian President Vladimir Putin, emphasizing the strategic partnership between the two nations.

Kim Jong Un Praises Russia-North Korea Relations

In his message, Kim Jong Un called 2025 a milestone year for bilateral relations, describing the bond between North Korea and Russia as a “precious common asset” that will endure for generations to come. Kim also stated that the unity between the peoples of the two countries is now unbreakable, highlighting the long-term strategic alignment between Moscow and Pyongyang.

This message followed Putin’s New Year greeting to Kim on December 18, which praised North Korea’s troops for their “heroic” role in the western Kursk region of Russia. According to state media, Putin’s note affirmed the “invincible friendship” between the two countries, further cementing their alliance.

North Korea’s Military Role in Ukraine

According to South Korean and Western intelligence sources, North Korea has deployed thousands of troops to support Russia in Ukraine. Pyongyang confirmed earlier in 2025 that its soldiers were involved in the conflict and suffered casualties in combat operations.

In August 2025, North Korean troops were reportedly sent to clear landmines in Russia’s Kursk region, with at least nine soldiers killed during a 120-day deployment. This military collaboration has sparked international concern about North Korea’s growing role in global conflicts beyond the Korean Peninsula.

Missile Production and Weapons Support

Kim Jong Un has instructed North Korean officials to increase missile production and expand munitions factories, signaling an ongoing focus on military modernization. Recent years have also seen intensified missile testing, aimed at improving the precision of North Korea’s short-, medium-, and long-range rocket systems.

Analysts suggest that these efforts are not only for regional deterrence against the U.S. and South Korea but may also support military exports to Russia, including artillery shells, missiles, and long-range rocket systems. In return, Russia has reportedly provided financial aid, military technology, and essential supplies such as food and energy to North Korea.

Strategic Implications

The growing military cooperation between North Korea and Russia signals a strengthened alliance that could have far-reaching implications for international security. Experts warn that this collaboration may prolong the conflict in Ukraine and shift regional power dynamics, particularly in East Asia, where North Korea’s missile capabilities continue to pose a threat.