Kim Jong Un and Putin Grow Closer, North Korea Pledges Support to Russia

North Korean leader Kim Jong Un has reaffirmed an “unwavering” commitment to support Russia, marking the increasingly close relationship between Pyongyang and Moscow amid the ongoing Ukraine war.

Kim conveyed this in a thank-you letter to Russian President Vladimir Putin, as reported by North Korea’s state media KCNA on Wednesday (25/3/2026).

“I extend my sincere thanks to you for your warm and heartfelt congratulations on my reappointment as President of State Affairs,” Kim stated in his message, as quoted by AFP.

In the letter, Kim also highlighted the growing closeness between the two countries since Russia’s invasion of Ukraine in 2022.

“Currently, North Korea and Russia are working closely together to safeguard the sovereignty of both nations,” Kim said. “Pyongyang will always stand with Moscow. This is our unwavering choice and determination.”

Relations between North Korea and Russia have indeed grown warmer in recent years. Several analysts assess that Pyongyang has sent ground troops and various weapon systems to aid Russia’s war in Ukraine. In return, Moscow is said to have provided food aid and military technology.

This closeness was further solidified through a military agreement reached by Kim and Putin during Putin’s visit to Pyongyang in June 2024. The pact obliges both countries to provide military assistance “without delay” if one is attacked.

On the other hand, regional geopolitical dynamics could become even more complex. Belarusian state media reported that President Alexander Lukashenko is scheduled to visit North Korea for two days starting Wednesday to strengthen bilateral cooperation.

Belarus and North Korea are known to both support Russia in the Ukraine conflict, while opposing Western countries. To date, Pyongyang has not confirmed the planned visit.