Russian President Vladimir Putin has thanked North Korea for its support in what Moscow described as the liberation of Russia’s Kursk region from Ukrainian forces in 2025. The message came during a meeting with North Korean Foreign Minister Choe Son-hui, highlighting continued coordination between Moscow and Pyongyang.
The discussion underscored the growing visibility of ties between the two countries as Russia continues to frame developments around Kursk as part of the broader war with Ukraine. Putin’s remarks signaled public appreciation for North Korea’s role in that effort, according to the reported account of the meeting.
Choe Son-hui’s visit also points to the diplomatic importance both sides are placing on the relationship. While the brief report does not detail any new agreements, the meeting itself suggests that military and political cooperation remains a prominent part of Russia-North Korea contacts.
The reference to Kursk is especially notable because it links North Korea directly to one of the conflict’s most sensitive border regions. Putin’s comments are likely to draw further attention to how Moscow’s partnerships are evolving as the war continues.
