Russia's Vladimir Putin has thanked North Korean leader Kim Jong Un for the courage of his soldiers who have been fighting in Ukraine on the Russian side.
Kim, in response, expressed his willingness to do everything I can to assist Russia.
The two leaders met on Wednesday in Beijing amid one of China's largest military parades, which celebrated 80 years since the end of the Second World War in Asia.
Putin stated that bilateral relations between Russia and North Korea are friendly and remarked on how Pyongyang's military helped liberate the Kursk region.
Your soldiers fought courageously and heroically, Putin told Kim during their discussions. I would like to note that we will never forget the sacrifices that your armed forces and the families of your servicemen have suffered.
Kim thanked Putin for recognizing North Korea's military efforts, stating that bilateral relations had been advancing across all areas, including their joint struggle in Ukraine.
According to South Korea, North Korea has deployed approximately 15,000 troops to assist Russia, along with providing missiles and long-range weapons. In exchange, it is believed that North Korea received food, money, and technical support.
These troops have reportedly been engaged in efforts to reclaim territories in the Kursk region under Russian command, where they are thought to have suffered significant losses.
Western officials previously estimated that at least 1,000 North Korean soldiers had died due to combat conditions, with later reports suggesting that around 4,700 casualties had been noted.
North Korean soldiers, many of whom lack combat experience, are believed to have started their assignments in Russia through training and by performing support roles.
This meeting marks the third encounter between the leaders in two years, emphasizing the strengthening ties as both nations deepen military cooperation.
Last year, Putin and Kim had signed a treaty establishing a mutual defense pact in case of aggression against either nation, highlighting what Kim described as the strongest ever bilateral agreement.
Additionally, North Korea had affirmed its commitment to send workers to help rebuild Russia's war-damaged Kursk region.
During a recent ceremony, Kim expressed sorrow over the deaths of North Korean soldiers in Ukraine, vowing to honor their sacrifices through the establishment of a memorial and support for their families.
