North Korea has hailed its military’s involvement in the Russian conflict as a demonstration of true internationalist solidarity on the first anniversary of signing the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership Treaty with Russia.
The Rodong Sinmun, the official newspaper of the Workers’ Party of Korea, reported on Thursday that the North Korean military’s operation to liberate the Kursk region exemplifies the most practical implementation of the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership Treaty. The article, titled “The Invincible Power of the DPRK-Russia Alliance Will Be Demonstrated Even More Strongly,” emphasized the growing strength of the alliance.
The newspaper highlighted that this operation showcased the might of both countries’ armed forces and the unshakeable solidity of their alliance. It particularly praised the North Korean soldiers, stating that they, following their Supreme Leader’s orders, regarded Russian territory as their homeland and the Russian people as their blood brothers, displaying unparalleled valor and self-sacrifice on the fierce battlefields.
The paper further asserted that the complete liberation of the Kursk region, achieved through joint military operations, reinforces the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea (DPRK)-Russia alliance as a strategic bastion for defending justice and peace. It described this as a manifestation of true unity, cooperation, and genuine internationalist loyalty, underlining the invincibility of their alliance.
It argued that the DPRK-Russia relationship, founded on this treaty, serves as a powerful security mechanism that eases regional tensions and ensures global strategic stability. It claimed that this alliance acts as a driving force for establishing a fair, multipolar international order and paving the way for a brighter future for humanity.
The newspaper reaffirmed the two nations’ commitment to strengthening their combat readiness while pursuing mutual prosperity. It stated that this reflects the unwavering stance of both peoples, who have experienced the vitality of their friendship and alliance in the struggle against imperialist hegemony and threats, as well as in safeguarding peace, stability, and national interests.
It emphasized that the treaty signing provides a robust legal framework to secure the future of bilateral relations, despite any challenges that may arise. It characterized the event as historic and unprecedented in the nearly 80-year history of DPRK-Russia relations, something both nations can take pride in.
The article also noted that since the treaty’s signing, cooperation has intensified across various fields. This includes frequent exchanges of high-level delegations, the development of multi-sector cooperation projects, the promotion of governmental trade, economic, and scientific exchanges, enhanced communication in areas such as economy, diplomacy, education, health, and the arts, and the construction of a cross-border automobile bridge in April.
On the same day, a North Korean deputy foreign minister responsible for Russia affairs stated that the DPRK government’s position to strengthen and develop the indestructible DPRK-Russia friendship continually remains steadfast.
The deputy minister described the DPRK-Russia treaty as a significant political milestone with profound strategic implications, securing a promising future for both nations. He emphasized that the deployment of North Korean troops to Russia demonstrated the strength of the DPRK-Russia alliance through the defense of Russia’s territorial sovereignty.
He added that the strong comradeship and combat superiority between the two nations would inspire progressive forces worldwide striving for a just and peaceful new world order. The official asserted that the unbreakable friendship and unity, rooted in kinship, would further solidify, with North Korea and Russia standing together on this path.
Russian President Vladimir Putin visited Pyongyang on June 19 last year, where he held a summit with Kim Jong Un and signed the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership Treaty. Article 4 of this treaty stipulates immediate mutual military assistance in the event of armed invasion, indicating that it is considered equivalent to a military alliance.
