North Korean leader Kim Jong Un reaffirmed his full support for Russia’s military actions in Ukraine during discussions with Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov. The meeting took place in Wonsan, a coastal city in North Korea, where both leaders emphasized their commitment to strengthening ties amid the ongoing conflict. This encounter on October 7, 2023, marked another step in the deepening military and political relationship between the two nations, as reported by North Korean state media.
Lavrov’s visit is part of a series of high-profile engagements by Russian officials aimed at solidifying collaboration with North Korea. According to the Korean Central News Agency (KCNA), Kim expressed Pyongyang’s readiness to “unconditionally support and encourage all measures” taken by the Russian government to address the underlying issues of the Ukrainian crisis. He also conveyed confidence in the Russian army’s success, praising President Vladimir Putin‘s leadership.
Military Cooperation and Bilateral Relations
The discussions included a review of significant matters related to the agreements reached during the historic DPRK-Russia summit in June 2024. Lavrov conveyed Putin’s hope for ongoing direct communications shortly after their meeting. Following the talks, Lavrov departed for Beijing to participate in the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation Foreign Ministers’ Council, as reported by Russian state news agency TASS.
North Korea has been actively supporting Russia’s military efforts, reportedly sending thousands of troops to assist in operations in the Kursk region. The North Korean military has also supplied artillery shells and missiles, contributing to Russia’s operations against Ukraine. It is estimated that around 600 North Korean soldiers have been killed, with thousands more injured, according to South Korean intelligence. North Korea only acknowledged its troop deployment in April 2023 and confirmed casualties in combat.
During the meeting, Lavrov expressed gratitude to the North Korean forces for their contributions, while Kim and Lavrov discussed the “invincible alliance” between their countries. The bilateral relationship has gained momentum, with Russia pledging support for North Korea’s security efforts. In return, North Korean officials expressed solidarity with Russian initiatives aimed at addressing the Ukrainian conflict’s root causes.
Future Prospects and Strategic Goals
The collaboration between Russia and North Korea is underscored by a mutual defense agreement signed last year, during Putin’s rare visit to Pyongyang. Both nations are navigating significant international sanctions and have committed to countering perceived hegemonic threats from external players, particularly those causing tensions in Northeast Asia and the broader Asia-Pacific region.
As the situation evolves, the implications of this partnership will likely resonate throughout global diplomatic circles. With Lavrov’s recent visit and ongoing military cooperation, the dynamics of the conflict in Ukraine and regional stability in Northeast Asia remain critical areas of concern for international observers.