Russia announces a long-term military partnership with North Korea

Russian Defense Minister Andrei Belousov said on Sunday, during his meeting with North Korean leader Kim Jong-un in Pyongyang, that Moscow is ready to sign a military cooperation plan with North Korea for the period from 2027 to 2031.

Belousov added: "We agreed with the Ministry of Defense of North Korea to elevate military cooperation to a solid, long-term foundation. We are ready to sign a military cooperation plan for the period 2027 to 2031."

The Russian defense minister confirmed that relations between Russia and North Korea have reached an unprecedented level, adding that "this year is expected to be filled with events in terms of bilateral contacts across various fields."

For his part, Russian President Vladimir Putin confirmed on Sunday that "the military brotherhood between Russia and the Democratic People's Republic has a glorious history," noting that Pyongyang intervened decisively to save Kursk Oblast when part of it fell under Ukrainian control.

Putin, in a congratulatory message to participants at the opening ceremony of the memorial complex and museum for Korean soldiers, stated that "the Korean soldiers and officers who fought side by side with their Russian brothers-in-arms showed courage and dedication, and their unparalleled achievements will forever remain in the hearts of every Russian citizen."