DPRK leader Kim Jong Un pledged that his country will “fully support” Russia’s military efforts, framing it as a fraternal responsibility, while Russian President Vladimir Putin praised the relationship between Moscow and Pyongyang as “special,” according to DPRK state media.

Kim and Putin held bilateral talks in Beijing on the sidelines of China’s commemorations marking Japan’s formal surrender in World War II. The meeting also brought Chinese President Xi Jinping into the same frame with Kim and Putin, marking the first time the leaders of the three countries convened together since the Cold War era.

The Beijing trip gave Kim his first opportunity to engage both Putin and Xi simultaneously, as well as interact with more than two dozen other heads of state present at the military parade.

State media highlighted the symbolism of the occasion, showing images of Kim walking and smiling alongside Xi and Putin. The Rodong Sinmun newspaper dedicated much of its coverage to Kim’s visit, underlining the significance of his meetings.

Reinforcing the alliance

According to the Korean Central News Agency (KCNA), Kim and Putin exchanged candid views on regional and global affairs. Putin lauded the role of DPRK troops in Ukraine, reiterating that relations between Moscow and Pyongyang rest on trust, friendship, and alliance.

South Korean intelligence estimated this week that nearly 2,000 DPRK soldiers were killed fighting alongside Russian forces in Ukraine. Reports indicate Pyongyang intends to deploy thousands more, with around 1,000 combat troops already stationed on the battlefield.

Last year, the two sides signed a mutual defense treaty, obligating both to provide immediate military assistance if either comes under armed attack. This agreement, described by Putin as a “breakthrough,” came into effect in December 2024 and has since elevated the partnership to a comprehensive strategic level.

Beyond the battlefield

The DPRK–Russia alliance now extends beyond military cooperation. Moscow and Pyongyang have intensified collaboration in economic and technological fields, including agreements on resource exploration, energy security, and space technology.

Russia has pledged to assist the DPRK with its satellite program, while both nations are working to establish trade mechanisms independent of Western control.

The partnership also has political and cultural dimensions. Both countries have committed to opposing Western sanctions, strengthening cooperation in education, sports, and media, and reinforcing what they describe as an “invincible alliance” against Western hegemony.

Kim and Putin reaffirmed their determination to elevate bilateral relations “to the highest level,” signaling that the DPRK–Russia alliance will remain central in the broader CRINK bloc, comprising China, Russia, Iran, and the DPRK. This emerging alignment represents a direct challenge to US influence in global affairs.