Moscow: Russian President Vladimir Putin has expressed gratitude to North Korean leader Kim Jong-un for the deployment of North Korean troops to aid Russia in its ongoing conflict with Ukraine. He emphasized that the bilateral friendship between the two nations, cultivated amidst conflict, is set to strengthen further, as reported by Russian news outlets on Monday.
According to Yonhap News Agency, Putin conveyed his appreciation to Kim for North Korea's assistance in "liberating the Kursk Region from Ukrainian formations." This statement from the Russian news agency Tass, citing the Kremlin's press service, followed the official confirmation from Pyongyang regarding its troop deployment to Russia.
In his message, Putin extended heartfelt thanks, acknowledging the contributions of Kim as Chairman of the State Affairs Committee, as well as the leadership and citizens of North Korea. He remarked on the importance of the alliance and expressed confidence that the camaraderie and collaboration established on the battlefield will continue to thrive and broaden in various areas.