RussiaUkraine Relations – Kim Jong-un Reaffirms Stronger Strategic Ties With Moscow
RussiaUkraine Relations – North Korean leader Kim Jong-un has once again highlighted Pyongyang’s growing partnership with Russia while extending congratulations to President Vladimir Putin during Russia’s Victory Day celebrations.
North Korean state media reported on Saturday that Kim sent an official message to Putin marking the 81st anniversary of Victory Day, one of Russia’s most important national observances. In his message, Kim praised the expanding relationship between the two countries and stressed North Korea’s intention to continue strengthening bilateral cooperation.
Kim Highlights Expanding Partnership With Russia
According to the Korean Central News Agency (KCNA), Kim conveyed his “sincerest congratulations” to the Russian president and acknowledged what he described as a shared history built on independence, peace, dignity and prosperity between the two nations.
The North Korean leader also reaffirmed his government’s commitment to maintaining close strategic coordination with Moscow. Referring to the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea (DPRK), North Korea’s official name, Kim stated that Pyongyang would continue fulfilling responsibilities outlined in agreements signed between the two countries.
The remarks come amid increasingly visible diplomatic and military cooperation between Russia and North Korea over the past year.
Strategic Treaty Strengthened Bilateral Relations
Relations between Moscow and Pyongyang entered a new phase in June 2024 when Kim Jong-un and Vladimir Putin signed a comprehensive strategic partnership agreement during a high-profile summit.
The treaty was widely viewed by international observers as a revival of Cold War-era cooperation between the two governments. Since then, ties between the countries have expanded across political, military and economic sectors.
Reports from international agencies have previously indicated that North Korea provided military assistance to Russia during the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. Bilateral exchanges and coordination have also intensified following the agreement, further attracting global attention toward the partnership.
Russia Marks Victory Day Celebrations
Victory Day remains one of the most significant public holidays in Russia and commemorates the Soviet Union’s victory over Nazi Germany during World War II in 1945. The annual event is observed on May 9 and features military parades, national ceremonies and public gatherings across the country.
Government offices, schools and many businesses remain closed during the celebrations. Major cities also witness changes in traffic movement and public transport schedules because of parades and commemorative events.
The occasion carries deep historical importance in Russian society due to the massive human losses suffered by the Soviet Union during the war. Historical estimates suggest nearly 25 million Soviet citizens lost their lives during the conflict, known in Russia as the Great Patriotic War.
Evolution of Victory Day Traditions
Although Victory Day is now considered one of Russia’s biggest national commemorations, historians note that it was not always celebrated on such a large scale. For many years after World War II, May 9 was treated as a regular working day in the Soviet Union.
The holiday gained wider national prominence during its 20th anniversary in 1965. Large-scale military parades later became a regular tradition beginning in 1995, shaping the modern version of Victory Day celebrations seen today.
The event now stands as a central symbol of national identity and remembrance in Russia, second only to New Year celebrations in terms of public participation and cultural significance.