Putin Discussed Relations with North Korea Before Meeting with Trump

• Putin confirmed cooperation with North Korea ahead of the meeting with Trump.
• Kim Jong Un expressed support for Russia in the conflict with Ukraine.
• More than 10,000 North Korean soldiers are participating in the war on the side of Russia.

The President of Russia, Vladimir Putin, confirmed his "friendship" with the leader of North Korea, Kim Jong Un, during a telephone conversation on September 12, 2025. This conversation preceded the scheduled meeting of Putin with U.S. President Donald Trump, which will take place in Almaty.

During the conversation, Putin informed Kim about preparations for the meeting with Trump. He emphasized the importance of cooperation between Russia and North Korea, particularly within the framework of the strategic partnership that was signed last year.

Putin also expressed gratitude for the support of North Korea in "liberating" the Kursk region during the war in Ukraine, highlighting the heroism of North Korean soldiers. According to data from North Korean intelligence, more than 10,000 soldiers from North Korea have been sent to support Russian troops in the conflict.

This cooperation between Moscow and Pyongyang has increased amid Russia's economic and diplomatic isolation from the West. North Korea supplies Russia with missiles, artillery shells, and labor force, as many Russian soldiers have been killed or occupied on the front.

According to the BBC report, Putin and Kim confirmed their desire to develop friendly relations, cooperation, and assistance. At the same time, new military movements of Russia are being observed in Ukraine, particularly in the area of the city of Dobropillya.

Tags: Russia/Politics