Image: ln24SA
Russian State Duma Chairman Vyacheslav Volodin held a meeting with North Korean leader Kim Jong Un during an official trip to Pyongyang, according to a statement from the Russian parliament on Thursday.
Volodin, a trusted associate of President Vladimir Putin, delivered greetings from the Russian president and expressed appreciation for North Korea’s backing of Russia’s military efforts in Ukraine.
Earlier in the week, Putin had a phone conversation with Kim, during which he discussed upcoming negotiations with U.S. President Donald Trump scheduled to take place in Alaska on Friday.
North Korea’s official news agency reported that Kim responded to a letter from Putin, which Volodin had personally delivered. The message marked the 80th anniversary of Korea’s liberation from Japanese colonial rule.
In his letter, Kim referenced the historic ties between North Korean and Russian troops, stating they had forged “friendship and unity” in battle against a “common enemy,” though he did not specify whom he meant.
Both countries have acknowledged the presence of North Korean forces aiding Russia’s military operation aimed at regaining control of the Kursk region.
In June, South Korea’s intelligence agency suggested that North Korea might be preparing to send additional troops to assist Russia.
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