Kim praises troops back from Russia

North Korean leader Kim Jong Un has hailed troops returning from a mission in Russia, praising them for what state media described as exemplary loyalty and combat readiness as Pyongyang deepens its military ties with Moscow. The Korean Central News Agency said Kim personally met the returning personnel, commending their discipline and dedication and framing the deployment as evidence of the strength of cooperation between the two countries. While official reports did not specify the nature or location of the mission, the comments come amid heightened international scrutiny over North Korea’s expanding role in supporting Russia during the war in Ukraine.

State media portrayed the soldiers as having fulfilled a “sacred duty,” with Kim telling them their experience would strengthen the country’s armed forces and contribute to national defense. Images released showed Kim smiling and shaking hands with uniformed troops, underscoring the political significance Pyongyang attaches to the mission. Analysts say the highly publicized welcome suggests the deployment was intended not only for practical military cooperation but also for domestic messaging, reinforcing narratives of strength, solidarity and international relevance.

Western governments and South Korea have accused North Korea of supplying Russia with weapons and ammunition, and of potentially sending personnel to assist in logistics, engineering or training roles, allegations denied by both Pyongyang and Moscow. The latest statements are likely to fuel further concern among critics who argue that such cooperation violates United Nations sanctions imposed on North Korea over its nuclear and missile programs.

Kim’s remarks also highlighted what he called a “new era” of relations with Russia, following a series of high-level meetings and agreements over the past year. Observes say the return of troops and the public praise could signal Pyongyang’s willingness to expand military cooperation further, even as it faces ongoing economic hardship and diplomatic isolation.

Regional officials warned that closer ties between North Korea and Russia risk destabilizing security dynamics in Northeast Asia, particularly if battlefield experience or advanced technology is transferred back to Pyongyang. For now, the carefully staged welcome underscores how North Korea is seeking to leverage its partnership with Russia both internationally and at home, presenting overseas deployments as a source of prestige and strategic gain.