North Korean leader Kim Jong Un has committed to “invariably support” Russia in its war against Ukraine, reaffirming his country’s backing of Moscow’s territorial integrity. This statement came after Kim met Russian Defense Minister Andrei Belousov in Pyongyang on Friday. The growing military and strategic alliance between North Korea and Russia has raised international concerns.

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• Kim Jong Un pledges “invariable support” for Russia’s war in Ukraine.
• North Korean support includes backing Russia’s sovereignty and territorial integrity against NATO’s eastward expansion.
• Kim criticized the U.S. decision to allow Ukraine to strike Russian targets, labeling it a direct intervention in the war.
• The two countries agreed to strengthen their strategic partnership to defend sovereignty and security interests.
• North Korea has reportedly sent over 10,000 troops to fight on the frontlines in Ukraine and shipped weapons to Russia.
• Russia’s military delegation, led by Defense Minister Belousov, visited North Korea on Friday to discuss further cooperation.
• North Korea and Russia have denied reports about troop movements and weapons shipments.
• Both countries are concerned about the possibility of advanced weapons technology exchanges, including nuclear missile systems.
• Russia has reportedly provided North Korea with air defense missile systems and economic aid.
• Kim and Putin signed a treaty in June, promising mutual military support in the event of an attack, marking a major defense pact.