**North Korean Dictator Hails Russian Soldiers as “Heroes” Amid War Efforts**
In a recent statement, North Korean dictator Kim Jong Un has praised the soldiers fighting alongside Russia in Ukraine’s Kursk Oblast as “heroes” and “representatives of the nation’s honor”. This declaration was made through North Korea‘s state media on May 10.
**Justifying Involvement in War**
Kim justified North Korea’s involvement in the war by saying that it is a matter of their sovereign rights. He emphasized that this is part of a sacred mission they must execute for their comrades-in-arms and brothers. This statement highlights the close ties between Russia and North Korea, with Kim referring to Russia as a spiritual model for his country.
**Warning Against Western Intervention**
In addition to praising Russian soldiers, Kim also issued a warning against any potential Western intervention in Ukraine. He stated that if the “henchmen of the United States and the West” attempt another assault on the Russian Federation, North Korea will not hesitate to use their armed forces to repel the enemy’s invasion.
**North Korean Involvement in War**
It is worth noting that North Korea only publicly admitted its involvement in Russia’s war against Ukraine in late April. However, they had first dispatched around 11,000 troops to aid Russia in the fall of 2022, with an additional 3,000 troops reportedly sent earlier this year. This increase in troop numbers followed Kyiv‘s report that more than a third of North Korean soldiers have been killed or injured in combat.
**Close Ties Between Russia and North Korea**
Kim has been a key ally of Russia during its full-scale war against Ukraine, providing not only soldiers but also artillery shells, ballistic missiles, and other supplies. Russian President Vladimir Putin personally greeted North Korean soldiers after the Victory Day Parade in Moscow on May 9.
This close relationship between Russia and North Korea highlights the complexities of the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. As the war continues to unfold, it is essential to understand the motivations and alliances behind each side’s actions.
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