North Korean leader Kim Jong-un has awarded state honors to soldiers who returned from combat in Ukraine, while mourning the fallen, marking a deepening of the country’s alignment with Russia.
What Happened
In a ceremony held in Pyongyang, Kim Jong-un awarded state “hero” titles to commanders and soldiers who fought alongside Russian forces in Ukraine’s Kursk border region. He also placed medals beside the portraits of fallen North Korean troops, referring to them as “martyrs” for their sacrifices. Kim praised their “steadfast struggle” and described their feats as “great” and “historically remembered.” North Korea has sent around 15,000 troops to Russia since last autumn, according to South Korean assessments, along with substantial military supplies including artillery and ballistic missiles. There are also plans for sending additional military construction workers and deminers to the Kursk region soon.
Who Is Involved
- Kim Jong-un: North Korean leader who has strengthened his country’s military and diplomatic ties with Russia.
- Russian President Vladimir Putin: Kim held a phone call with Putin to discuss their strategic partnership, emphasizing North Korea’s full support for Russia’s efforts against Ukraine.
- North Korean Troops: Around 15,000 North Korean soldiers have participated in combat in Ukraine, with many more potentially involved in future deployments.
Background or Timeline
- Since Autumn 2024: North Korea has been involved in supporting Russia’s invasion of Ukraine by sending troops and supplying military equipment.
- August 2025: Kim Jong-un held a ceremony in Pyongyang to honor returning soldiers and those killed in the conflict, emphasizing the importance of their role in history.
- Phone Call with Putin: A call between Kim Jong-un and Vladimir Putin last week underscored the deepening military and diplomatic ties between the two countries, with Kim offering full support for Russia’s efforts in Ukraine.
Public or Social Media Reaction
The strengthening of ties between North Korea and Russia has raised concerns in South Korea and the West. South Korean officials are worried about North Korea potentially receiving economic aid and advanced military technologies from Russia, further bolstering Kim’s nuclear ambitions. South Korea has also attempted to restart diplomacy with the North, but Kim’s sister, Kim Yo-jong, dismissed these efforts, stating that North Korea would never accept Seoul as a diplomatic partner.
Official Statement or What Happens Next
Kim Jong-un’s regime continues to align with Russia as part of a broader effort to break out of diplomatic isolation and challenge Western influence. The strategic partnership with Russia is also seen as a counterbalance to the U.S. and its allies. North Korea is expected to continue its support for Russia in the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, while further distancing itself from diplomatic talks with the U.S. and South Korea.
Closing
The growing military and diplomatic ties between North Korea and Russia signal a new phase of international engagement for Kim Jong-un’s regime. This story may be updated with more information as it becomes available.
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