Kim Jong-un Pledges to 'Expand and Deepen' Russia Ties, Backs Victory in 'Sacred War'

Kim Jong-un sent a reply message to Russian President Vladimir Putin on September 14, 2026, responding to Putin's congratulations on the DPRK's 78th founding anniversary (marked September 9). Kim said Pyongyang had a firm will to broaden cooperation with Russia 'in a comprehensive way,' citing friendship, mutual assistance and the two countries' alliance relations — including North Korea's troop deployment to Russia's war against Ukraine since 2024. Kim said he was convinced of Russia's victory in what he called the 'sacred war for defending the security interests of the country and international justice,' and pledged his 'invariable support' for Putin and the Russian people. KCNA reported the message on September 15.