Sat Nov 30 04:58:49 UTC 2024: ## Kim Jong Un Vows Unwavering Support for Russia in Ukraine War

**SEOUL, South Korea –** North Korean leader Kim Jong Un has pledged unwavering support for Russia’s war in Ukraine, further escalating tensions in the region. This commitment came during a meeting Friday with Russian Defense Minister Andrei Belousov, who led a military delegation to Pyongyang.

According to the Korean Central News Agency (KCNA), Kim and Belousov reached a consensus on strengthening their strategic partnership and defending their respective national interests. Kim characterized Russia’s actions in Ukraine as a defensive response to NATO’s eastward expansion and U.S. efforts to undermine Russia’s global influence. He specifically praised recent Russian strikes on Ukraine as “a timely and effective measure.”

The visit comes amid reports that North Korea has already provided substantial military support to Russia, including over 10,000 troops, artillery systems, missiles, and other weapons, according to U.S., Ukrainian, and South Korean assessments. While both North Korea and Russia deny these claims, concerns remain high about the growing military cooperation between the two nations.

South Korea’s national security adviser, Shin Wonsik, recently revealed that Seoul believes Russia has supplied North Korea with air defense missile systems, economic aid, and other military technologies, including those related to space-based surveillance. There are further fears that this collaboration could lead to Russia providing North Korea with advanced weapons technology to enhance its nuclear missile capabilities.

The deepening ties between North Korea and Russia are underscored by a military assistance treaty signed in June by Kim and Russian President Vladimir Putin, their most significant defense pact since the Cold War. This agreement obligates both countries to provide immediate military aid if either is attacked. The continued escalation of this partnership poses a significant challenge to international stability.

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