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North Korea Reaffirms Support for Russia in Ukraine Conflict

North Korea Reaffirms Support for Russia in Ukraine Conflict

First seen 15 Sep 2026, 17:06 UTC

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ThreatCluster AI
ThreatCluster September 15, 2026 at 17:55 UTC
  • North Korea pledges unwavering support for Russia in the Ukraine conflict.
  • Kim Jong Un's letter emphasizes expanding military cooperation and ties.
  • North Korea has deployed approximately 15,000 troops to assist Russia since 2024.

On September 15, 2026, North Korean leader Kim Jong Un expressed unwavering support for Russia in its ongoing conflict with Ukraine, referring to it as a 'sacred war.' In a letter to President Vladimir Putin, Kim emphasized a commitment to expand military cooperation and deepen ties between the two nations. North Korea has previously sent thousands of troops to assist Russian forces in Ukraine, with estimates of 15,000 combat troops deployed since 2024. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky claimed that North Korea plans to send an additional 30,000 to 50,000 soldiers. South Korean intelligence has noted preparations for new troop deployments, although they do not consider them imminent. The North Korean economy reportedly benefited from military cooperation with Russia, contributing to a growth of over 3% in 2025. The two countries have also established a road connection across their border, further solidifying their alliance.

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Timeline

2024-01-01
North Korea sends troops to Russia
North Korea begins deploying soldiers to assist Russian forces in Ukraine, marking the start of military cooperation.
Plataformamedia
2024-09-01
Defense agreement signed
Moscow and Pyongyang conclude a defense agreement, formalizing military cooperation.
Plataformamedia
2025-01-01
Troop deployment estimates rise
South Korean military intelligence estimates that around 15,000 North Korean troops are active in Russia.
Plataformamedia
2025-08-01
Ukraine claims new troop deployments
Ukrainian President Zelensky states that North Korea plans to send between 30,000 and 50,000 additional soldiers to Russia.
Plataformamedia
2026-09-15
Kim's letter to Putin
Kim Jong Un reaffirms support for Russia in a letter, emphasizing the need for expanded cooperation.
Asiaone

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