North Korean leader Kim Jong-un pledged to do “everything possible” to assist Russia during a bilateral meeting with Vladimir Putin in Beijing. The two leaders, who appeared alongside Chinese President Xi Jinping at a ceremonial event, discussed strengthening cooperation, and Kim invited Putin to visit Pyongyang.
The meeting marks Kim’s second overseas trip in 2025, following his recent visit to Beijing. North Korea has increasingly supported Russia since its invasion of Ukraine in 2022, providing weapons, including artillery shells and missiles, and sending troops to assist Russian forces. Russia and North Korea have a mutual agreement to provide military and other assistance if either country is attacked.
Putin thanked Kim for North Korea’s military support, noting their role in the Kursk region, while also emphasizing that Russian forces are advancing “on all fronts.” The talks coincided with a major Russian missile and drone attack on Ukraine, prompting regional concerns and prompting Poland to scramble its defence aircraft.
Ukraine’s president, Volodymyr Zelenskyy, criticized Putin’s actions as showing “impunity” and called for stronger sanctions on Russia’s war economy. Analysts note that China is navigating a delicate balance, maintaining its partnerships with both Russia and North Korea while avoiding additional international pressure or sanctions.
