Russian Security Council Secretary Sergey Shoigu conveyed a message from President Vladimir Putin to North Korean leader Kim Jong Un during a meeting in Pyongyang, according to state media reports from both countries.
"I would like to convey the warmest wishes and greetings from Russian President Vladimir Putin to you. He pays the utmost attention to the implementation of agreements reached with you," Shoigu told Kim during their discussions. The senior Russian official confirmed to reporters that the two leaders addressed Putin’s message, among other topics.
North Korea Reaffirms Support for Russia Amid Ukraine War
North Korean state media reported that Kim Jong Un expressed his "unwavering support" for Russia’s actions in Ukraine during the meeting. The Korean Central News Agency (KCNA) quoted Kim as saying his government would "invariably support Russia in the struggle for defending their national sovereignty, territorial integrity, and security interests."
The two sides also discussed broader geopolitical issues, including Moscow’s dialogue with the Trump administration and the security situation on the Korean Peninsula. Both Russian and North Korean media highlighted that the leaders reaffirmed their commitment to a mutual defense treaty, pledging unconditional support in the event of aggression against either nation.
Shoigu’s visit to Pyongyang comes amid reports of deepening military cooperation between the two countries. U.S., South Korean, and Ukrainian intelligence officials have claimed that North Korea has supplied significant quantities of conventional weapons to Russia and deployed thousands of troops to support Moscow’s efforts.
Speculation Over Kim’s Potential Visit to Russia
Observers suggest Shoigu’s trip could be linked to preparations for a potential visit by Kim Jong Un to Russia. Putin extended an invitation to Kim during his own visit to Pyongyang last year, though no official confirmation of such plans has been provided.
The meeting between Shoigu and Kim coincided with a trilateral gathering of foreign ministers from China, Japan, and South Korea. During the talks, Japan and South Korea criticized the growing ties between North Korea and Russia, urging China to exert pressure on Pyongyang to de-escalate regional tensions.
Neither Russian nor North Korean media disclosed whether any new agreements were reached during Shoigu’s visit, which concluded on Friday. The discussions, however, underscore the strengthening alliance between Moscow and Pyongyang amid ongoing global geopolitical shifts.