Kim Jong Un Sends New Year’s Greetings to Putin, Hints at Continued Support for Russian Military Efforts

North Korean leader Kim Jong Un has sent a New Year’s congratulatory letter to Russian President Vladimir Putin, signaling a continued commitment to strengthening ties between the two nations.

On Tuesday, the Korean Central News Agency reported that Kim extended warm greetings to the “fraternal Russian people” and “valiant soldiers of the Russian army” on behalf of himself, the North Korean people, and all service members of the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea.

In his message, Kim expressed his willingness to bolster the comprehensive strategic partnership between the two nations. He emphasized plans to “design and vigorously implement new projects” to achieve national goals and ensure the peace and prosperity of both countries’ populations.

Kim also wished Putin “greater achievements” in his leadership and for the “prosperity, welfare, and happiness of the Russian people.”

Observers note Kim’s reference to North Korean service members and his declaration of the new year as a “victory in the 21st century” is widely interpreted as an indication to maintain military cooperation with Russia, including the potential deployment of North Korean troops.

In June, North Korea and Russia signed a comprehensive strategic partnership agreement encompassing military, economic, social, and cultural cooperation. This collaboration has intensified, with reports suggesting the deployment of over 11,000 North Korean soldiers to support Russian operations in Ukraine last month.

On December 17, Putin reciprocated by sending Kim a New Year’s card, expressing confidence in their joint efforts to address contemporary threats and challenges.