North Korea's Kim vows full support for Russia, discusses partnership with Putin

North Korean leader Kim Jong Un has pledged full support for Russia’s military efforts during a meeting with President Vladimir Putin in Beijing on September 3, 2025. The talks coincided with China’s World War II victory celebrations, marking a rare joint appearance of Kim, Putin, and Chinese President Xi Jinping, Reuters reported.

Kim described backing Russia as a “fraternal duty,” reaffirming North Korea’s commitment to its defense treaty with Moscow. Putin thanked North Korea for its military support in Ukraine, where around 2,000 North Korean soldiers are reported to have died, with more troops expected.

The summit highlighted strengthening ties among the three nations, signaling a united stance against Western influence. Putin also invited Kim to visit Russia, further deepening the growing partnership, according to Reuters.