North Korean and Russian Leaders Send New Year’s Greetings

As 2025 approaches, leaders from North Korea and Russia are exchanging heartfelt New Year’s messages, highlighting their enduring partnership forged through shared experiences during the Ukraine conflict. North Korean leader Kim Jong Un specifically referenced the deep ties formed through “blood, life, and death” in his message to Russian President Vladimir Putin.

Strengthening Bonds Amid Conflict

Kim’s greeting comes on the heels of President Putin’s own message shared on December 18, where he noted the “heroic” contributions of North Korean troops deployed in Russia’s Kursk region. Both leaders emphasized the unbreakable bond between their nations, which they consider a vital asset for future generations.

Kim’s Perspective on Bilateral Relations

In his message, published by the state-run Korean Central News Agency (KCNA), Kim declared 2025 a “truly meaningful year” for the relationship between Moscow and Pyongyang. He reassured that the unity of their peoples would remain intact, as reported by South Korea’s Yonhap news agency.

Troop Deployments and Military Support

According to South Korean and Western intelligence, North Korea has dispatched thousands of soldiers to bolster Russia’s military efforts in Ukraine. The North officially confirmed in April that its forces were sent to assist and that some of its soldiers have lost their lives in combat.

Recent Developments and Acknowledgments

This month, Kim acknowledged that North Korean troops had been involved in clearing landmines in the Kursk region after a Ukrainian incursion, resulting in casualties among its engineering regiment.

Military Enhancements and Weapons Testing

In addition to sending troops, Kim has recently called for increased missile production and the establishment of additional munitions factories. Over recent years, North Korea has accelerated its missile testing, aiming to enhance the accuracy of its weaponry to counter perceived threats from the U.S. and South Korea. Analysts suggest this intensified testing may also be linked to North Korea’s military exports to Russia.

Besides troop deployments, it is believed that North Korea has supplied Russia with artillery shells, missiles, and long-range rocket systems. In turn, Russia has provided North Korea with financial assistance, military technology, as well as food and energy supplies.

Conclusion

The mutual recognition of strength and support between North Korea and Russia underlines a significant alliance amid global tensions. As both nations prepare for 2025 together, their cooperative military operations will likely shape their future relations.

• Kim Jong Un emphasized the strong ties formed through shared experiences in the Ukraine war.
• President Putin praised North Korean troops for their contributions in Russia’s Kursk region.
• North Korea has increased its military production and missile testing in response to perceived threats.
• The partnership continues to deepen with military assistance flowing between the two nations.