N. Korea's Kim Jong-un offers full support to Russia in Ukraine War
'He affirmed his stand to unconditionally support every decision made by the Russian leadership,' KCNA reported.
The meeting marks another step in the intensifying ties between North Korea and Russia, following recent allegations that Pyongyang has been supplying artillery shells, missiles, and even troops to assist Moscow's operations in Ukraine. Reports also suggest North Korean laborers and engineers have been involved in infrastructure projects in occupied Ukrainian regions—raising international concern and condemnation, particularly from the West.
Lavrov, in turn, praised North Korea's 'firm support for Russia's position' and emphasized expanding economic, military, and diplomatic cooperation. The talks are expected to lay the groundwork for a potential second summit between Kim Jong Un and Russian President Vladimir Putin, after their high-profile meeting in September 2023 at the Vostochny Cosmodrome.
Western governments, including the United States and South Korea, have warned that deeper Russia–North Korea cooperation could violate UN Security Council sanctions, particularly if arms transfers or ballistic missile technology are involved.
Both nations, heavily sanctioned and isolated, appear to be forging a strategic alignment aimed at counterbalancing Western influence, deepening cooperation in areas ranging from weapons development to space technology.
-DW
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