Putin Invites Kim After Beijing Talks, Praises Military Support

Russian President Vladimir Putin and North Korean leader Kim Jong Un held significant bilateral talks in Beijing following a major Chinese military parade commemorating the 80th anniversary of World War II's end. During their meeting at the Diaoyutai State Guest House, Putin praised the bravery of North Korean troops who have reportedly supported Russian forces in repelling a Ukrainian incursion near Russia's Kursk border, with South Korean estimates indicating about 15,000 North Korean soldiers and substantial military equipment have been sent to aid Moscow. Kim emphasized the strengthened cooperation between Russia and North Korea since the strategic partnership pact signed in June 2024 and pledged to do everything possible to assist Russia, referring to this support as a "fraternal duty." The two leaders traveled together in the same car to the talks, and the event marked Kim's first major multilateral appearance since coming to power, sharing the stage with both Putin and Chinese President Xi Jinping. While President Donald Trump accused the three leaders of conspiring against the United States, Kremlin officials dismissed these claims as unfounded. Observers are watching for potential further meetings between Kim and Xi or a trilateral gathering, though no official confirmations have been made.