Kim Jong-un Sends Birthday Message to Putin Amid Strengthening Ties

North Korean leader Kim Jong-un has extended birthday greetings to Russian President Vladimir Putin, referring to him as his “closest comrade.” The communication marks a strengthening of ties between Pyongyang and Moscow, relationships which have grown closer since the onset of the Ukraine conflict.

The message from Kim, reported by North Korean state media KCNA and cited by Yonhap News Agency, emphasizes intentions to elevate bilateral relations to a “new level.” Kim asserted that the ties have become “invincible and eternal” following a visit by Putin to Pyongyang, suggesting that their strengthened alliance could be pivotal for both nations.

Historically, the relationship between North Korea and Russia dates back to the era of Joseph Stalin and Kim Il-sung, the grandfather of the current North Korean leader. The Soviet Union at that time played a crucial role in supporting North Korea through military and technological aid. Currently, as North Korea seeks to enhance its military capabilities, particularly its nuclear arsenal, the association with Russia could prove instrumental.

Both leaders have emphasized mutual support amidst international scrutiny. Earlier this year, they signed an agreement to assist each other in case of “aggression” against either nation, though specifics remain undefined. It has been alleged that North Korea supplies Russia with weapons in exchange for technological advancements, a cooperation that raises alarms in Western capitals.

Russia’s reliance on North Korea comes as it faces significant challenges in its invasion of Ukraine, with Western sanctions pressuring its military supply chains. North Korean arms, reportedly shipped in thousands of containers, have allegedly supplemented Russia’s war efforts, a claim reported by the U.S. government.

On the part of North Korea, advancing its military technology, including missile and nuclear capabilities, remains a top priority. Despite economic hardships and food security issues plaguing the nation, the pursuit of military strength continues unabated, drawing on foreign partnerships for support.

In a September visit to Russia, Kim Jong-un discussed efforts to develop North Korea’s space program with Putin, following a series of unsuccessful satellite launches. Meanwhile, in South Korea, reports have emerged, based on intelligence assessments, indicating that North Korea may be in the early stages of constructing a nuclear-powered submarine.