Kim Jong Un called Russia’s war in Ukraine “sacred” and promised unwavering support for Vladimir Putin

In a letter sent on the occasion of Vladimir Putin’s birthday, North Korean leader Kim Jong Un praised relations between Pyongyang and Moscow and called for their development. North Korea has become an important ally of Russia following the invasion of Ukraine in 2022, sending soldiers in exchange for economic benefits and military technology.

South Korean intelligence services estimate that approximately 2,000 North Korean soldiers have been killed, while around 6,000 have been killed or wounded in the conflict. The letter risks further straining relations between Seoul and Kyiv, following the transfer to Seoul of North Korean soldiers captured by Ukraine. Zelenskyy says that Pyongyang could send additional troops to Russia.