Ahead of a visit to Pyongyang to strengthen defense ties, Russian President Vladimir Putin praised North Korea on Tuesday for ‘firmly supporting’ Moscow’s war in Ukraine. In a press statement released by the Kremlin, Putin expressed his gratitude to the North Korean leadership for their unwavering support in the ongoing conflict in Ukraine.
The statement came as Putin prepares for a historic visit to North Korea, his first since taking office in 2000. The two countries have a long history of friendly relations, dating back to the Korean War in the 1950s when Soviet troops provided support to North Korea against US-led forces. Despite recent tensions and economic sanctions imposed on North Korea, Putin has continued to maintain close ties with the reclusive nation.
In his statement, Putin praised North Korea for its stance on the Ukrainian crisis, stating that the country has always stood by Russia in its fight against Western aggression. He also expressed his gratitude for the economic and military aid provided by North Korea to help Russia weather the impact of the sanctions.
The Russian president’s visit to Pyongyang is being seen as a strategic move to strengthen ties between the two nations. Talks are expected to focus on military cooperation and economic ties, with discussions also anticipated on international issues such as the ongoing conflicts in Syria and Ukraine.
North Korean leader Kim Jong-un has consistently praised Putin and his leadership, and the upcoming meeting between the two leaders is being eagerly anticipated. The visit is expected to be a key step in further enhancing the close relationship between the two countries.
The North Korean Foreign Ministry also issued a statement, expressing its commitment to maintaining a strong partnership with Russia and welcoming Putin’s visit to Pyongyang. The statement noted that cooperation between North Korea and Russia is based on mutual respect and shared interests, and that the two countries stand united in their shared vision for a multipolar world order.
The relationship between North Korea and Russia has not always been easy, with periods of strained ties in the past. However, under Putin’s leadership, the two nations have fostered a strong partnership that is based on mutual trust and understanding. Putin’s visit to Pyongyang is yet another indication of Russia’s commitment to its relationship with North Korea.
The timing of Putin’s visit is also significant, coming at a time when North Korea has been facing mounting pressure from the international community over its nuclear program. Putin’s support for North Korea in the face of these pressures is a clear indication of his belief in the country’s sovereignty and right to self-defense.
The visit also holds great significance in terms of regional security. With growing tensions between North Korea and the US, the strengthened ties between Russia and North Korea can serve as a counterbalance to the dominant US influence in the region. It also sends a strong message to the international community that Russia will not stand by and let its allies be isolated and targeted unjustly.
In light of recent events, Putin’s praise for North Korea and its support for Russia in the Ukrainian crisis is a testament to the strong bond between the two countries. The Russian president’s visit will not only further strengthen the already close relationship between Russia and North Korea but also serve as a symbol of solidarity and cooperation against common threats and challenges.
As Putin prepares to visit Pyongyang, it is clear that the two countries will continue to work closely together in the face of external pressures. The strong bond between Russia and North Korea is a shining example of friendship and partnership between two nations that share a common vision of a peaceful and prosperous world.
