Kim Jong Un Calls Russia Alliance ‘Most Sincere’ in New Year Message

UPDATE: North Korean leader Kim Jong Un has just praised his nation’s ties with Russia as the “most sincere alliance” in a powerful New Year message directed at President Vladimir Putin. This urgent announcement comes amid growing tensions as North Korea continues to support Russia’s military efforts, particularly in the ongoing Ukraine conflict.

In a message published today, December 27, 2025, by the Korean Central News Agency (KCNA), Kim referred to Putin as “my dear comrade” and emphasized the deep bond shared between their nations, stating, “the most sincere alliance, forged by sharing blood in the trenches and experiencing life and death together.”

Kim highlighted that as 2025 progresses, DPRK-Russia relations have been “further solidified,” underscoring that this alliance has been “vividly engraved on the pages of the era and history.” This assertion is particularly significant as it reflects North Korea’s ongoing military support for Russia, which has been interpreted as a critical factor in enhancing their partnership.

The North Korean leader expressed that “no one can break the relationship between the peoples of our two countries, nor the solidarity of our peoples,” framing 2025 as “a truly meaningful year” for both nations. He described their alliance as “a precious shared asset” that must endure for future generations.

Kim’s remarks follow a New Year greeting from Putin, where he thanked North Korea for its troop deployment to Russia’s Kursk region. Putin expressed confidence that both countries will continue constructive cooperation on various regional and international issues.

This deepening alliance comes on the heels of a comprehensive strategic partnership agreement signed in June 2024, marking a new chapter in North Korea and Russia’s collaboration. The North’s support for Moscow’s efforts to regain control of the Kursk region has been a pivotal point in their relationship, reinforcing their military and political ties.

Kim’s New Year message was prominently featured on the front page of Rodong Sinmun, the official newspaper of the ruling Workers’ Party. This reflects the importance placed on the relationship with Russia, contrasting sharply with the limited acknowledgment of greetings from other world leaders, including Chinese President Xi Jinping.

As the international community watches closely, these developments signal a significant shift in alliances. The implications of this strengthened partnership could reverberate across global geopolitics, especially in relation to the ongoing conflict in Ukraine and the broader tension between East and West.

Next steps: Analysts will be monitoring any further communications from both leaders as well as actions taken in response to this robust declaration of unity. The situation remains fluid, and developments could emerge rapidly in the coming days.

Stay tuned for further updates as this story unfolds.