Putin and Kim Jong Un Pledge Mutual Defence Pact in Face of Threats

North Korean leader Kim Jong Un has promised “full support and solidarity” for Russia’s war in Ukraine, as President Vladimir Putin said during their meeting in Pyongyang that Moscow is fighting against the decades-long “hegemonic and imperialist policy” of the United States and its allies.

Putin thanked Kim on Wednesday for his unwavering support for Ukraine.

The Russian leader is on his first visit to North Korea in 24 years, with relations between the two countries growing closer since Moscow began its full-scale invasion of Ukraine and rising concern that Pyongyang is providing Russia with weapons in return for Russian technological expertise.

Russia and North Korea have denied arms transfers but have promised to strengthen military ties.