Wonsan: North Korean leader Kim Jong-un has reiterated his country's unwavering support for Russia in its ongoing conflict with Ukraine. During a meeting with Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov in Wonsan, Kim assured that North Korea stands ready to back all actions taken by the Russian leadership regarding the Ukrainian crisis.

According to France24.com, the meeting, which took place in Wonsan—a newly developed resort city on North Korea's east coast—highlighted the strengthening ties between the two nations. Lavrov conveyed Russian President Vladimir Putin's hope for continued direct communications with Kim in the near future. Following his visit to North Korea, Lavrov proceeded to Beijing to participate in the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation Foreign Ministers Council.

Before Lavrov's visit, Russia had announced plans to initiate twice-weekly flights between Moscow and Pyongyang. Lavrov praised Wonsan as a promising tourist destination and expressed optimism about its popularity among both North Korean and Russian tourists. The Korean Central News Agency (KCNA) also reported on Lavrov's meeting with North Korean Foreign Minister Choe Son Hui, describing the bilateral relationship as an "invincible alliance."

During the discussions, Moscow reiterated its strong support for North Korea's security efforts, while Choe expressed solidarity with Russia's measures to address the Ukrainian conflict. TASS, a Russian news agency, noted that Lavrov acknowledged the contributions of North Korean soldiers aiding Russia, with Seoul reporting significant casualties among them.

Both countries reaffirmed their commitment to countering external influences that they claim are escalating tensions in Northeast Asia and the Asia-Pacific region. This meeting follows the signing of a military agreement between the two nations last year, which includes a mutual defense clause, underscoring the deepening military cooperation between Russia and North Korea.