The South Korea’s unification ministry stated that North Korea’s involvement in Russia’s Victory Day parade aimed to demonstrate the strengthening military relationship between the two countries. North Korean troops, for the first time, marched in Moscow’s Red Square carrying their national flag and a banner marking Victory Day, which commemorates the Soviet victory in World War II. The Korean People’s Army, comprising ground, naval, and air forces, participated in the Moscow Victory Day Parade at the invitation of Russia.
Following the parade, Russian President Vladimir Putin met with the contingent commander and expressed gratitude, as reported by the Korean Central News Agency. This event marked the inaugural public march of North Korean troops on Russian soil in such a ceremonial setting, according to Yonhap news agency. Pyongyang had deployed approximately 15,000 combat troops to assist Russia in the war after a strategic partnership treaty was signed between North Korean leader Kim Jong-un and Russian President Vladimir Putin in June 2024.
North Korean leader Kim Jong-un conveyed a congratulatory message to Russian President Vladimir Putin on the occasion of Russia’s Victory Day celebration, emphasizing Pyongyang’s commitment to enhancing ties with Moscow. Kim expressed satisfaction with the shared history of independence, dignity, peace, and prosperity between the two nations. Reaffirming the prioritization of the comprehensive strategic partnership between North Korea and Russia, Kim pledged to uphold the obligations outlined in the inter-state treaty between the two countries.
