President Vladimir Putin honored North Korean soldiers during Russia’s 80th Victory Day celebrations in Moscow on May 9, 2025. These soldiers have been fighting alongside Russian forces in Ukraine. Putin’s public gesture shows a growing military partnership between Russia and North Korea amid rising global tensions.
JUST IN: ???? Russia's President Putin pays respect and hugs North Korean soldiers. pic.twitter.com/HbwwtwW1SW
— BRICS News (@BRICSinfo) May 9, 2025
North Korea Confirms Troop Deployment
North Korea officially confirmed it had deployed troops to assist Russia in Ukraine. According to media reports, about 12,000 North Korean soldiers have been sent, and nearly 4,000 have died. This is the first time Pyongyang openly admitted its military involvement in the conflict. The confirmation marks a major step in North Korea-Russia relations. It also raises new concerns among Western countries.
Kim Jong Un Reaffirms Alliance
North Korea’s leader Kim Jong Un recently visited the Russian embassy in Pyongyang. His daughter accompanied him. He commemorated Victory Day and emphasized stronger cooperation between the two nations.
North Korea’s state media later confirmed the military’s success in a joint operation in the Kursk region. This mission, conducted with Russian forces, was described as a sign of their “friendship proven by blood.”
Russia Admits North Korean Role in Kursk
For the first time, Russia officially acknowledged North Korean troops’ involvement in the battle for Kursk, near the Ukrainian border. General Valery Gerasimov briefed President Putin about the region’s “complete liberation.” He praised North Korean troops for their discipline and bravery. President Putin thanked Kim Jong Un, the North Korean government, and the people of North Korea for their help in the operation.
Treaty Obligates Military Support
At the United Nations, Russia’s representative Vasily Nebenzya said the North Korean involvement followed the 2024 Comprehensive Strategic Partnership Treaty. Under Article 4, both nations must provide military support if either is attacked.
Last year, Russia denied the presence of North Korean troops. Later, it stopped denying or confirming the reports. The silence puzzled observers—until both sides decided to make their cooperation public around Victory Day.
Despite the invitation, North Korean soldiers did not march in Moscow’s military parade. Kim Jong Un also skipped the event. However, Russian officials suggested that “another interesting meeting” with North Korea could happen soon.
Longstanding History of Diplomatic Caution
Russia and North Korea have always used careful words in public. Their diplomatic style has been shaped by past events. For example, in 2010, after the sinking of the South Korean warship Cheonan, Russia offered condolences but didn’t blame North Korea outright. Instead, it sent its own experts to investigate.
Pyongyang Backed Russia on Crimea
In 2014, North Korea supported Russia’s actions in Crimea. Pyongyang called the referendum a “reunification” and opposed the UN resolution challenging it. North Korea even updated its maps in 2017 to show Crimea as Russian territory.
Russia’s Criticism of Sanctions
During 2016-17, Russia criticized sanctions against North Korea. Moscow warned about humanitarian consequences and opposed the U.S.’s efforts to tighten the restrictions. Russia later pushed the UN to ease sanctions, citing Pyongyang’s willingness to cooperate on diplomacy.
Symbolic Visits and Military Signals
Kim Jong Un visited Russia in 2019 after his failed summit with the U.S. president in Hanoi. Though the trip led to no major agreements, it was rich in symbolism. Kim praised Putin and reaffirmed North Korea’s friendship with Russia.
Since 2022, their ties have grown stronger than at any time since the fall of the Soviet Union. In 2024, Putin published an article celebrating historic cooperation and expressed hopes for expanded ties.
New Treaty Strengthens Military Bond
In 2024, both countries signed a new treaty. It required military help if either was attacked. At the press event, Putin said Russia might start military-technical cooperation with North Korea. He pointed to NATO and U.S. military actions as justification.
Diplomatic Show of Strength
The recent recognition of North Korean troops and praise for their role in the Kursk operation serves as a diplomatic signal. It shows the world that Russia and North Korea are committed allies. Despite concerns from the West, both countries seem determined to deepen their strategic partnership—militarily and diplomatically.
