Kim Jong Un Vows Support for Russia’s Army | Discuss Partnership

In a rare show of unity, North Korean leader Kim Jong Un and Russian President Vladimir Putin met in Beijing on Wednesday during China’s commemoration of Japan’s World War II surrender. For the first time since the Cold War, Kim, Putin, and Chinese President Xi Jinping appeared together at a massive military parade, symbolizing deepening ties among the three nations.

State media photos showed the leaders smiling and walking side by side. According to North Korea’s KCNA, Kim and Putin “exchanged candid opinions on important international and regional issues,” highlighting their growing partnership.

Why Is This Meeting Important?

This was Kim’s first-ever meeting with Putin and Xi together, giving him a stage to strengthen North Korea’s global standing. For Russia, it marks another show of support as Moscow faces Western isolation over the war in Ukraine. For China, the gathering signaled its continued role as a central power-broker in Asia.

What Did Kim Promise?

Kim pledged that North Korea would “fully support” Russia’s military, calling it a “fraternal duty.” KCNA reports that Putin, in turn, praised North Korean troops already fighting alongside Russian forces in Ukraine and hailed the two countries’ relations as “special ones of trust, friendship, and alliance.”

How Is North Korea Helping Russia?

• Troops: South Korea’s intelligence agency estimates that 2,000 North Korean soldiers fighting in Ukraine have already been killed.
• Weapons: North Korea has supplied artillery shells and missiles to aid Moscow.
• Deployment in the Future: With 1,000 combat soldiers already in Russia, intelligence indicates that an additional 6,000 troops may be dispatched.

What Does Their Treaty Say?

In 2024, Kim and Putin signed a mutual defence treaty, pledging military assistance if either country faces an armed attack. This deal formally establishes what both leaders refer to be a long-term strategic alliance.

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What Does This Mean for the Region?

The strengthening military partnership prompts inquiries regarding:

• Security in Northeast Asia: South Korea and Japan worry about instability near their borders.
• Global Power Balance: Russia, isolated from the West, gains manpower and weapons from Pyongyang.
• China’s Position: Xi’s presence signals tacit approval, though Beijing carefully balances ties with the West.

This show of unity revives images of Cold War-style blocs. A new triangle of influence appears to be emerging, posing a threat to Western alliances in Asia and beyond, as China supports Russia politically and North Korea provides support.