North Korea’s Kim Jong Un Lauds Soldiers Fighting Alongside Russia in Ukraine

Kim Jong Un, the leader of North Korea, has lauded the efforts of his country’s troops participating in Russia’s war against Ukraine. State media relayed that Kim praised the soldiers during a gathering with military officials overseeing overseas operations. According to KCNA, Kim conveyed his “warm encouragement” to personnel serving in the Kursk region of Russia. Western intelligence suggests that over 10,000 North Korean fighters have been sent to this area. Speaking to military personnel, Kim highlighted the heroic nature of his army, stating that they are fulfilling their duties and will continue to do so. North Korea first confirmed its deployment of troops to fight alongside Russian forces in April. This followed a strategic agreement signed by Kim and Russian President Vladimir Putin in June of the prior year, including a mutual defense component. Reports from South Korean and Western intelligence sources indicate that Pyongyang dispatched more than 10,000 soldiers to the Kursk region in 2024, accompanied by significant quantities of weaponry, including artillery, missiles, and rocket systems. South Korea claims around 600 North Korean soldiers have been killed, and thousands more wounded while fighting for Russia. Kim’s praise comes as the United States President Donald Trump has been involved in high-level discussions focused on ending the Russia-Ukraine war.