In a diplomatic meeting held in Russia, North Korea’s leader, Kim Jong Un, expressed unwavering support for Russian President Vladimir Putin’s actions in Ukraine, characterizing them as a ‘just fight’ against what he labeled as Western imperialism in the ongoing Ukrainian conflict.
As the two leaders convened at the Vostochny Cosmodrome, situated approximately 200 kilometers from Blagoveshchensk in Russia’s far eastern Amur region, Kim Jong Un, aided by a translator, conveyed his belief that the Russian army and its people would emerge victorious against the forces he regarded as ‘evil’—a reference to Western intervention in the Ukrainian war.
Kim Jong Un, emphasizing North Korea’s steadfast commitment to the ‘anti-imperialist’ cause, offered “full and unconditional support,” as reported by AP. The North Korean leader extended his support for what he termed Russia’s “just fight.”
In a ceremonial gesture, Kim Jong Un raised a toast to President Putin’s well-being, the triumph of “great Russia,” the enduring friendship between Korea and Russia, and the health of all participants in the summit.
“I am deeply convinced that the heroic Russian army and people will brilliantly inherit the tradition of victory, confidently demonstrate invaluable dignity and honor on the fronts of the special military operation,” Kim affirmed through an interpreter. He continued, “The Russian army and people will certainly win a great victory in the sacred struggle for the punishment of a great evil that claims hegemony and feeds an expansionist illusion.”
During their meeting, the leaders enjoyed a menu featuring culinary delights such as duck and fig salad, crab dumplings, sturgeon, and beef, complemented by a selection of Russian wines.
This summit at the Vostochny Cosmodrome serves as a testament to the convergence of interests between Russia and North Korea in response to their respective challenges and confrontations with the United States. The discussions, which lasted approximately four to five hours, culminated in Kim Jong Un’s departure from the venue, as reported by Russia’s state news agency RIA Novosti.
Analysts have speculated about potential arms deals between North Korea and Russia, a matter of concern for the West. It is suggested that North Korea possesses vast quantities of aging artillery shells and rockets based on Soviet designs, which could significantly bolster Russia’s military capabilities in Ukraine.
The United States has accused North Korea of supplying arms to Russia, including the sale of artillery shells to the Russian mercenary group Wagner. However, both Russian and North Korean authorities have denied these allegations.
With inputs from various agencies.*
