Kim Jong Un Blames U.S., West for Escalating Ukraine Conflict

North Korean leader Kim Jong Un has expressed support for Russia’s actions against Ukraine, stating that Moscow has the right to defend itself in response to “hostile forces” and their use of long-range weapons. Speaking to Russian Defense Minister Andrei Belousov on Friday, Kim blamed the United States and Western powers for Ukraine’s attacks on Russian territory, calling for measures to make them “pay the price,” according to North Korea’s KCNA news agency.

Kim asserted that the U.S. and its allies have directly influenced Kyiv’s use of advanced strike weapons against Russia, emphasizing North Korea’s unwavering support for Moscow’s efforts to safeguard its sovereignty and territorial integrity. “The DPRK government, army, and people will invariably support the Russian Federation’s policy to defend against imperialist hegemony,” he said, using North Korea’s official name, the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea.

Strengthening Military and Strategic Ties

Kim reaffirmed his commitment to strengthening ties with Russia in all areas, including military collaboration, under the comprehensive strategic partnership agreement signed with President Vladimir Putin in June. The pact, which includes mutual defense provisions, has significantly advanced cooperation between the two nations since a high-profile summit in September last year.

Reports from South Korea’s intelligence agency claim that North Korea has supplied Russia with over 10,000 containers of ammunition, along with self-propelled howitzers and multiple rocket launchers. The agency also alleged that North Korea has deployed over 10,000 troops to Russia, with some stationed on frontlines like the Kursk region.

Escalation Amid U.S. Weapons Use in Ukraine

The discussions come amid escalating tensions, as Ukraine has recently used U.S.-supplied ATACMS missiles to strike Russian territory, following approval from President Joe Biden’s administration. Russia has responded with retaliatory attacks on Ukraine’s military and energy infrastructure.

Kim and Belousov’s talks reportedly did not address the deployment of North Korean troops to Russia. However, Belousov also held discussions with North Korea’s Defense Minister No Kwang Chol, highlighting the bilateral agreement’s role in maintaining a balance of power in Northeast Asia.

The visit concluded with Kim personally attending a reception for the Russian delegation, underscoring the growing strategic partnership between the two nations.