Beijing, September 4, 2025 — North Korean leader Kim Jong Un pledged “full support” for Russia’s military during a high-stakes meeting with President Vladimir Putin on the sidelines of China’s World War II victory parade in Beijing. The leader described aiding Moscow as a “fraternal duty,” signaling deepening military alignment as global tensions escalate.
In a rare joint appearance, Kim, Putin, and Chinese President Xi Jinping attended a massive military parade together—the first public showing of the three leaders since the Cold War era—underscoring a symbolic alliance amid shifting geopolitical dynamics.
During their private talks, Putin praised North Korean troops deployed in Ukraine, with some estimates indicating North Korea has already sent approximately 2,000 soldiers, and plans for additional deployments are underway.
The leaders reaffirmed their commitment to expand bilateral cooperation under their 2024 mutual defense treaty, pledging to elevate their strategic ties. Putin also invited Kim to visit Russia, signaling intent to deepen the alliance.
While the summit provided Kim with a significant propaganda win, analysts caution it reflects more of a convergence of interests than a fully formalised bloc. Nonetheless, the assembly marks a notable shift in global alignments.
Source: Reuters
