North Korean leader Kim Jong Un sent a birthday message to Russian President Vladimir Putin, expressing "unwavering support" for Russia. The letter, published today by the Korean Central News Agency (KCNA), also conveyed Kim's pleasure in their "good friendship" and the opening of a "new chapter" in bilateral relations.

In the message, Kim reaffirmed his commitment to Putin and Russia, stating his firm belief that the "sacred just cause of the Russian people will end in victory." This follows an earlier letter this year where Kim conveyed "unconditional support" for all of Putin's policies and decisions.

President Vladimir Putin of Russia. Photo: Kremlin

President Putin is celebrating his 74th birthday today. Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said Putin would spend time with his family but would continue working, including engaging in international phone calls and preparing for the Commonwealth of Independent States (CIS) summit in Turkmenistan.

Putin typically celebrates his birthday in Russia. He has only marked his birthday abroad two times: in Chisinau, Moldova, in 2002, and on Bali, Indonesia, in 2013.

Foreign leaders often send symbolic gifts to Putin. In 2008, he received an Amur tiger cub. In 2017, former Italy prime minister Silvio Berlusconi gifted him an embroidered duvet cover. In 2022, Belarus President Alexander Lukashenko presented him with a certificate of ownership for a tractor, while Tajikistan President Emomali Rahmon brought watermelons, which were later donated to children's facilities.

Russia and North Korea have forged strong ties in recent years. In 6/2024, the leaders of the two countries signed a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership Treaty, which includes a mutual defense clause. Under this agreement, if one country faces armed aggression, the other will immediately provide military assistance and other forms of aid through all available means.