North Korean leader Kim Jong-un has reaffirmed the strength of the North Korea-Russia alliance, calling it “indestructible” and rooted in bloodshed shared on the battlefield. He sent his message to President Vladimir Putin on the occasion of Russia Day, which marks the country’s declaration of sovereignty in 1990. According to state media, Kim praised the nations’ growing military bond as a genuine comradeship. He claimed their friendship has grown deeper through shared sacrifice during Russia’s ongoing war in Ukraine. This marks a continued effort by Kim to frame the alliance as both political and military.
Furthermore, Kim noted that the North Korea-Russia alliance now stands as a model of trust and cooperation. He expressed strong determination to expand their partnership across sectors. As global scrutiny mounts, Kim vowed that North Korea would “stand with” Russia, both politically and militarily. His language pointedly emphasized unity against what both countries view as Western hostility. These statements signal increasing alignment between the two governments amid global tensions.
Importantly, the message comes just days before the anniversary of a joint defense treaty signed by both leaders last year. That pact, inked on June 19 during a summit in Pyongyang, calls for immediate military aid if either nation faces an attack. This agreement reflects how deeply the North Korea-Russia alliance has evolved in the past year. Both countries have since ramped up defense exchanges and logistical coordination. North Korea’s endorsement of Russian military objectives appears stronger than ever.
Since October, around 15,000 North Korean troops have reportedly deployed to support Russian forces in Ukraine. In April, North Korea officially acknowledged this deployment for the first time. The admission marked a rare moment of openness from Pyongyang regarding its military operations abroad. It also drew sharp condemnation from Western governments, which see the move as a breach of international norms. Still, Kim’s message indicates that the alliance remains unshaken.
As Kim and Putin double down on shared goals, their partnership continues to isolate them from much of the global community. However, both leaders appear undeterred by sanctions or diplomatic pressure. Instead, they double down on military ties, nationalist rhetoric, and resistance to Western influence. With the anniversary of their defense treaty approaching, the North Korea-Russia alliance seems poised to deepen. Global observers will watch closely for any moves that escalate the regional balance.
