BEIJING: Russian President Vladimir Putin personally thanked North Korean leader Kim Jong Un for military assistance during their meeting in the Chinese capital.
Putin specifically praised North Korean special forces for their role in helping Russian troops reclaim the Kursk region from Ukrainian forces.
The Russian leader revealed that deploying North Korean troops was Kim’s own initiative following Ukraine’s unexpected incursion into western Russia last year.
Putin stated that North Korean soldiers fought with exceptional courage and heroism according to their new bilateral agreement.
He emphasized that Russia would never forget the sacrifices made by North Korean armed forces and their families during the conflict.
North Korea has emerged as one of Russia’s primary allies since the invasion of Ukraine three and a half years ago.
The partnership has involved thousands of North Korean troops and substantial weapons shipments supporting Russia’s military objectives.
Both leaders attended a major parade in Beijing commemorating the 80th anniversary of Japan’s World War II surrender. – AFP
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