UPDATE: North Korean leader Kim Jong Un has just reaffirmed his commitment to a deepening alliance with Russia, calling it the “most sincere alliance” in a New Year message to President Vladimir Putin, according to reports from the Korean Central News Agency on December 27, 2025. This declaration signals a significant strengthening of ties between the two nations at a time when global tensions are high.
In his message, Kim referred to Putin as “my dear comrade,” highlighting the camaraderie built “by sharing blood in the trenches and experiencing life and death together.” He emphasized that the relationship between North Korea and Russia has become increasingly solidified as they approach the new year, marking 2025 as “a truly meaningful year” for their alliance.
Kim’s statements come in the wake of North Korea’s troop deployment to support Russian efforts in the ongoing Ukraine war. This military cooperation has been portrayed by Pyongyang as a pivotal aspect of their bilateral ties, with Kim asserting, “no one can break the relationship between the peoples of our two countries, nor the solidarity of our peoples.” He described their alliance as “a precious shared asset” that must be preserved for future generations.
The North Korean leader’s message was a direct response to a New Year greeting from Putin, who expressed gratitude for North Korea’s support in the Kursk region. Putin also conveyed confidence that the two nations would continue their constructive cooperation on both regional and international issues.
This New Year communication follows the signing of a comprehensive strategic partnership agreement between North Korea and Russia in June 2024, which has seen cooperation expand across multiple sectors. Last year, North Korea publicly reinforced this alliance by backing Russia’s military actions to regain control of the Kursk region.
Kim’s message was prominently featured on the front page of Rodong Sinmun, the official newspaper of the ruling Workers’ Party. Unlike previous years, when letters exchanged between Kim and Putin were fully disclosed, this year’s correspondence reflects a more strategic approach to their diplomatic ties, indicating a robust partnership amid international scrutiny.
As global observers analyze the implications of this strengthening alliance, all eyes are on how this partnership will shape geopolitical dynamics in 2025. The intertwining of military support and diplomatic cooperation between North Korea and Russia continues to raise concerns among international leaders regarding stability in the region.
The developing situation necessitates close monitoring, as the repercussions of this alliance could have far-reaching effects on international relations and security strategies moving forward.
