Portrait of Kim Jong Un
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Kim Jong Un on Ukraine

Russia's steadfast supporter (strong)

TL;DR

Kim Jong Un strongly supports Russia's war effort by providing military aid and deploying North Korean soldiers to fight against Ukraine.

Key Points

  • He praised troops deployed in support of Russia's war as the "ever-victorious army and genuine protector of international justice."

  • The nation provided an estimated twelve million artillery shells to Russia by July 2025, significantly contributing to Russia's war effort.

  • The leader inaugurated a new housing district in Pyongyang in February 2026 for the families of North Korean soldiers killed while fighting in the conflict.

Summary

Kim Jong Un has taken a strong public stance in firm support of Russia’s military actions in Ukraine, framing the involvement as a demonstration of the prestige of the North Korean military. He has publicly praised soldiers deployed to fight alongside Russian forces, even conferring hero titles upon those killed in action and unveiling new housing for their bereaved families in Pyongyang. This unwavering support is cemented by a mutual defense pact with Russia and is presented as part of an alliance dedicated to protecting international justice against Western opposition.

North Korea's engagement is substantial, involving the supply of millions of artillery shells and missiles, and the deployment of thousands of troops, initially to the Kursk region, for combat and engineering duties. For the leader, this alliance serves dual purposes: bolstering a crucial partner in challenging the Western-led order and providing his military with invaluable, modern combat experience in exchange for economic relief and advanced military technology from Moscow.

Key Quotes

“Over the past year, various soldiers of our military have participated in overseas military operations to demonstrate the reputation of our military,”

Frequently Asked Questions

Kim Jong Un is a strong supporter of Russia’s actions in Ukraine and actively aids Moscow's war effort. He praises the deployment of North Korean soldiers and views the participation as enhancing his military's prestige globally. His stance is framed as an unconditional commitment to supporting Russia until its victory.

Yes, North Korea confirmed sending military personnel to fight alongside Russian forces, primarily in the Kursk region of Russia, beginning in late 2024. The leader has publicly honored these soldiers, including those killed, as martyrs and heroes for their service in the conflict.

The leader seeks military modernization, gaining combat experience for his troops, and receiving economic benefits and technology from Russia in return for his support. This alignment also solidifies his position within an anti-Western coalition.