News|Kim Jong UnN Korea, Russia bound in ‘blood’ of war, Kim tells Putin in New Year noteNorth Korean, Russian leaders send New Year’s greetings hailing their ‘precious’ shared experience of ‘blood, life and death’ in Ukraine war.

North Korean leader Kim Jong Un has stated that relations with Russia have been reinforced during the Ukraine conflict. In a New Year’s message to Russian President Vladimir Putin, Kim emphasized the strengthened ties through shared efforts and sacrifices.

According to state media reports, Russian President Vladimir Putin had previously acknowledged the contributions of North Korean troops in the Kursk region, highlighting their role in supporting Russian efforts. This acknowledgment was part of a New Year’s greeting sent to Kim Jong Un on December 18.

South Korean and Western intelligence agencies report that North Korea has deployed thousands of troops to aid Moscow's military campaign. North Korea confirmed in April that it had sent troops, with casualties reported during combat operations. Specifically, Kim Jong Un noted the deployment of North Korean troops for demining operations in Russia’s Kursk region in August 2025, resulting in the loss of at least nine soldiers.

North Korea is believed to have supplied Russia with military equipment, including artillery shells, missiles, and long-range rocket systems. In return, Russia has provided North Korea with financial support, military technology, and essential supplies such as food and energy.

Amidst ongoing military cooperation, Kim Jong Un has directed an increase in missile production and the establishment of additional munitions factories. North Korea's ongoing missile testing aims to enhance the precision of its short-, medium-, and long-range rockets, which serve as a deterrent against perceived threats.

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Based on reporting by Al Jazeera.