"Our heroic army has fully demonstrated its extraordinary qualities. This outcome affirms the reputation and prestige of the North Korean army as one of the most powerful militaries in the world. Our army is doing what it must and should do, and will continue to do so in the future," North Korean leader Kim Jong-un said during a meeting with commanders in charge of overseas military operations, upon their return home for an awards ceremony.
He praised their contributions in commanding combat units that participated in the operation to liberate Russia's Kursk province, emphasizing that the country had entrusted these units with "the most important mission."
Top military officials attended the meeting, including Deputy Chief of the General Staff Ri Chang-ho.
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North Korean leader Kim Jong-un meets with commanders of overseas military operations on 20/8. Photo: KCNA |
North Korean leader Kim Jong-un meets with commanders of overseas military operations on 20/8. Photo: KCNA
Russia and North Korea have built a strong relationship in recent years. In June 2024, the leaders of the two countries signed the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership Treaty, which includes a clause on joint defense. According to the treaty, in the event of an armed attack against one country, the other will immediately provide military support and other assistance by all possible means.
Two months later, Ukraine launched an offensive in Russia's Kursk province. North Korea sent forces to support Russia in repelling Ukrainian forces and liberating Kursk at the end of April. South Korean intelligence reported that Pyongyang sent 10,000 troops.
Russian Chief of the General Staff Valery Gerasimov praised the "professionalism of the North Korean soldiers."
In May, Kim Jong-un affirmed that sending troops to fight in Kursk was "justified and an exercise of sovereign rights to protect a brother nation." At the end of June, he paid tribute to the soldiers who died in Kursk, draping flags over their coffins and placing his hand upon them.
During a phone call with Kim on 12/8, Russian President Vladimir Putin expressed his gratitude for the "sacrificial spirit of the North Korean soldiers," affirming that their actions demonstrated courage and heroism.
Huyen Le (Reuters, Yonhap)
