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🇰🇷 South Korea /Conflict & Security

Kim Jong Un meets Russian Duma Speaker, reaffirms 'blood alliance'

From Hankyoreh · (6m ago) Korean

Translated from Korean, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.

TLDR

  • North Korean leader Kim Jong Un met with Vyacheslav Volodin, the speaker of Russia's State Duma, in Pyongyang to reaffirm the "blood alliance" between the two nations.
  • The meeting coincided with the inauguration of a monument commemorating North Korean soldiers who fought alongside Russia in the Battle of Kursk 80 years ago.
  • Volodin conveyed greetings from Russian President Vladimir Putin and expressed gratitude for North Korea's past military contributions, highlighting the strong bond between the leaders and countries.

The recent visit of Vyacheslav Volodin, speaker of Russia's State Duma, to Pyongyang marks a significant moment in reaffirming the deep-rooted ties between North Korea and Russia. Meeting with Kim Jong Un, Volodin not only conveyed President Putin's regards but also celebrated the shared history of military cooperation, particularly the 80th anniversary of the Battle of Kursk.

The Russian people will never forget the dedication of North Korean soldiers who sacrificed their lives for the freedom of their homeland.

— Vyacheslav VolodinExpressing gratitude for North Korea's military contributions during a meeting with Kim Jong Un.

Volodin's presence at the inauguration of the monument honoring North Korean soldiers who participated in the Battle of Kursk underscores the historical narrative of mutual support that both nations emphasize. His words, expressing gratitude for the sacrifices made by North Korean soldiers and highlighting the strong bond between Kim Jong Un and Vladimir Putin, serve to reinforce the image of an "ironclad alliance" in the face of international pressures.

This high-level exchange is more than just a symbolic gesture. It signals a strategic alignment between Pyongyang and Moscow, especially as both countries navigate complex geopolitical landscapes. The visit, coupled with the arrival of Russian Defense Minister Andrei Belousov, suggests a deepening military and strategic cooperation that warrants close observation by the international community.

The close bond between Chairman Kim Jong Un and President Putin has become a decisive key to building the future in the most difficult times.

— Vyacheslav VolodinHighlighting the strong relationship between the leaders of North Korea and Russia.

From a North Korean perspective, these interactions are crucial for bolstering national pride and projecting an image of international solidarity. The emphasis on historical military alliances serves to legitimize the current regime and its foreign policy. While Western media might focus on the potential implications for global security, for North Korea, these meetings are vital for reinforcing its diplomatic standing and securing support on the international stage.

I sincerely thank the brave Korean soldiers who participated in the Battle of Kursk and pay tribute to the fallen heroes.

— Vladimir PutinMessage conveyed by Vyacheslav Volodin to Kim Jong Un.
DistantNews Editorial

Originally published by Hankyoreh in Korean. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.

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