North Korean leader Kim Jong Un has expressed unwavering support for Russia’s ongoing military actions in Ukraine during recent discussions with Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov. This meeting, described by Pyongyang’s state media as occurring in an atmosphere of “warm comradely trust,” highlights the strengthening ties between North Korea and Russia amid the latter’s offensive against Ukraine.
Lavrov’s visit to Wonsan, a coastal city in North Korea known for a newly opened resort project, represents a continuation of high-level exchanges between the two nations. The meeting was marked by a handshake and an embrace, as captured in footage shared by Russia’s foreign ministry.
During their talks, Kim declared North Korea’s readiness to “unconditionally support and encourage” all measures taken by Russian leaders to address the “root cause” of the Ukrainian crisis. He expressed confidence in the Russian military’s ultimate victory, praising President Vladimir Putin’s “outstanding leadership.”
The discussions also focused on implementing agreements from a significant summit held in June 2024. Lavrov conveyed Putin’s desire for ongoing direct communication in the near future. Following the meeting in Pyongyang, Lavrov continued his journey to Beijing to participate in the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation Foreign Ministers’ Council.
In a nod to enhancing transportation links, Russia has announced new twice-weekly flights between Moscow and Pyongyang, as both nations aim to bolster their economic and military cooperation. Lavrov referred to Wonsan as a potential tourist destination, hoping to attract not only North Koreans but also Russian visitors.
Prior to Lavrov’s meeting with Kim, he also engaged with North Korean Foreign Minister Choe Son Hui, whose dialogue underscored the burgeoning relationship between their countries, now described as an “invincible alliance.” The discussions reiterated Moscow’s backing for North Korea’s security efforts, while Choe reciprocated with her support for Russia’s initiatives regarding the Ukrainian conflict.
Lavrov notably thanked North Korean troops for their contributions, acknowledging the sacrifices made by around 600 soldiers who have reportedly lost their lives in the conflict, a figure validated by South Korean sources.
Both nations emphasized their commitment to counter external hegemonic influences that they perceive as heightening tensions in Northeast Asia and the broader Asia-Pacific region. This collaboration marks a significant dimension of their relationship, particularly following the establishment of a military agreement last year that included mutual defense commitments during Putin’s state visit to North Korea.
