North Korean Leader Kim Jong-un Commits to Supporting Russia's Actions in Ukraine
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Synopsis
North Korean leader Kim Jong-un has reaffirmed his commitment to support Russia's military actions in Ukraine during a meeting with Russian Security Council Secretary Sergei Shoigu. This collaboration reflects a strengthening of ties between the two nations amidst ongoing global tensions.
Key Takeaways
- Kim Jong-un pledges ongoing support for Russia.
- Discussions focused on security interests of both nations.
- Shoigu delivered a letter from Vladimir Putin to Kim.
- Speculation about a potential visit by Kim to Russia.
- Agreement on a temporary ceasefire discussed with the US.
Seoul, March 22 (NationPress) North Korean leader Kim Jong-un has reiterated his commitment to "invariably" support Russia's military operations in Ukraine during a meeting with a prominent Russian security official, as reported by Pyongyang's state media on Saturday.
Kim engaged in "important and useful" discussions with Russian Security Council Secretary Sergei Shoigu in Pyongyang the day before. Shoigu, who previously served as Russia's defense minister, arrived in North Korea just hours prior to their talks.
During this meeting, the two parties exchanged perspectives on numerous topics concerning the security interests of both nations, as well as regional and global matters, reaffirming their agreement on these issues, according to Yonhap citing the Korean Central News Agency (KCNA).
Kim emphasized that it is "the steadfast option and resolute will" of the DPRK government to invariably support Russia in the fight for national sovereignty, territorial integrity, and security interests in the future, the report indicated.
DPRK refers to the Democratic People's Republic of Korea, the official designation of North Korea.
Shoigu presented an "important signed letter" from Russian President Vladimir Putin to Kim, as stated by the KCNA, without revealing further details.
Analysts speculated that Shoigu's visit was aimed at clarifying Russia's position on a ceasefire in the Ukraine conflict and discussing what Russia could offer Pyongyang in exchange for North Korea's troop deployment to Russia.
In a recent phone conversation, Putin reached an agreement with US President Donald Trump to temporarily suspend strikes on Ukraine's energy infrastructure as part of a partial ceasefire.
Shoigu's visit also coincides with rumors that Kim may travel to Russia, potentially in May, to mark the 80th anniversary of Russia's Victory Day. Putin had extended an invitation to Kim for a visit to Moscow during his trip to Pyongyang last June for bilateral summit discussions.
