North Korean leader Kim Jong-un and Russian President Vladimir Putin met in Beijing during China’s military parade to discuss long-term cooperation plans. Both leaders reaffirmed their commitment to advancing ties based on “trust, friendship, and alliance.” Kim pledged full support for Russia’s defense of its sovereignty and territorial integrity, while Putin highlighted the sacrifices of North Korean troops in the Ukraine war. According to South Korea’s intelligence agency, around 15,000 North Korean soldiers have been sent to Russia since October 2024, with about 2,000 killed so far. The joint appearance of Xi, Putin, and Kim at China’s WWII victory celebrations symbolized a united front against the United States.
https://en.yna.co.kr/view/AEN20250904001052315?section=nk/nk
