Putin Thanks North Korea for Military Support in Kursk Conflict

Russian President Vladimir Putin has publicly thanked North Korea for its military assistance. The acknowledgment came during a high-profile meeting in Beijing, China. Putin stated North Korean forces helped Russia reclaim the Kursk region.

The event marked the first joint public appearance of Putin, Kim Jong Un, and Xi Jinping. Their meeting occurred at a military parade commemorating the end of World War II.

North Korean Troops Played Key Role in Kursk

Ukraine seized parts of the Kursk region in August last year. The offensive displaced over 200,000 Russian residents. The situation created a major friction point in the ongoing conflict.

Russian forces later regained approximately 40% of the captured territory. According to Reuters, President Zelensky of Ukraine had previously reported North Korean involvement. He claimed thousands of North Korean personnel were sent to assist Russia.

Zelensky also stated that Ukrainian forces captured two North Korean soldiers in January. This new acknowledgment from Putin confirms long-standing allegations of military cooperation.

Geopolitical Implications of the Alliance

The public thanks signals a deepening alliance between Russia and North Korea. This partnership challenges Western influence and sanctions against both nations. The collaboration extends beyond diplomatic support into active military engagement.

The trilateral meeting in Beijing underscores China’s role as a facilitator. This growing axis between Moscow, Pyongyang, and Beijing represents a significant shift in global power dynamics. It could lead to further coordinated actions against Western interests.

Putin’s gratitude to North Korea confirms a new chapter in military alliances. This development will likely influence future geopolitical strategies and global security assessments.

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What did Putin thank North Korea for?

Putin thanked North Korea for deploying its military to assist Russia. He credited them with helping to liberate the Kursk region from Ukrainian forces.

How many North Korean troops were in Kursk?

Ukrainian President Zelensky reported about 11,000 North Korean personnel were sent. He also confirmed the capture of two North Korean soldiers in January.

Where did this acknowledgment take place?

Putin conveyed his thanks to Kim Jong Un in Beijing, China. Both leaders were attending a military parade hosted by President Xi Jinping.

Why is the Kursk region significant?

Kursk became a major conflict zone after Ukraine seized parts of it. The region’s capture forced over 200,000 Russian civilians to flee their homes.

How has the US responded to this alliance?

President Trump sarcasked Xi Jinping to convey his “warm regards” to the other leaders. He suggested China was “conspiring against the US” with Russia and North Korea.

Trusted Sources: Reuters, Associated Press