Leader Kim Jong-un has pledged full backing for Moscow in the Ukraine conflict

North Korean leader Kim Jong-un has pledged unwavering support for Russia in the Ukraine conflict during a meeting with Russian Security Council Secretary Sergey Shoigu in Pyongyang on Wednesday. The two sides discussed strengthening their strategic partnership and commemorating the contributions of North Korean troops in the conflict, according to the Korean Central News Agency (KCNA).

The visit marks Shoigu's second trip to North Korea in recent months, following a meeting with Kim in March. On that occasion, both sides reaffirmed their commitment to deepening ties and discussed coordination on global geopolitical issues.

Kim reiterated on Wednesday that North Korea would "unconditionally support the stand of Russia and its foreign policies in all the crucial international political issues including the Ukrainian issue," according to the KCNA. He also reaffirmed North Korea's commitment to the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership Agreement signed with Russia in June 2024, which includes provisions for mutual military assistance in the event of "armed aggression." 

The meeting comes after both countries confirmed the deployment of North Korean troops to Russia's Kursk Region earlier this year to assist in repelling a Ukrainian incursion. Russian President Vladimir Putin publicly expressed gratitude for North Korea's support, commending the "heroism" and discipline of its soldiers on the battlefield.

The Comprehensive Strategic Partnership Agreement, effective since December 2024, has facilitated increased military cooperation between the two nations. Kim earlier emphasized the importance of the North Korea-Russia relationship, expressing confidence in Moscow's ability to achieve victory in its "just and sacred cause" to defend its sovereignty and security interests.