In his New Year message, North Korean leader Kim Jong-un praised troops fighting alongside Russia in Ukraine, a move observers said pointed to Pyongyang’s intention to sustain and deepen military cooperation with Moscow into 2026.
The emphasis on Russia came as Seoul and Beijing confirmed plans for a state visit next week, with analysts noting that North Korean state media played down Chinese President Xi Jinping’s New Year greeting while highlighting Russian leader Vladimir Putin’s message in detail – a contrast read as discomfort with China’s warming ties with South Korea.
In a congratulatory message sent to his troops on New Year’s Eve, Kim praised them for their sacrifices and devotion, through which, he said, the “invincible alliance” between the North and Russia was being further consolidated.
Kim also said his thoughts were “earnestly with comrades who are bravely engaging in battle”.
North Korea has sent more than 10,000 troops and conventional weapons to support Russia’s war efforts, sustaining thousands of casualties.
“All of you have safeguarded heroically the dignity and honour of the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea,” Kim said, lauding them as “the greatest strength, pride and a strong pillar” of the country, in referencing North Korea by its official name.
