Pyongyang: North Korean leader Kim Jong-un on Friday defended his country's participation in the Russia-Ukraine war as an "exercise of its sovereign rights," according to media reports. Kim made these remarks during a visit to the Russian Embassy in Pyongyang to mark the 80th anniversary of Russia's Victory Day.

According to Anadolu Agency, Kim stated, "Our participation in the war was justified, and this is within the realm of the exercise of our sovereign rights," during a congratulatory speech. He praised North Korean troops, referring to them as "heroes" engaged in combat against Ukraine.

Moscow has expressed appreciation for the involvement of North Korean troops, noting on Thursday that they played a "very big" role in operations in the Kursk border region. Russian Ambassador to North Korea Aleksandr Matsegora highlighted the comprehensive strategic partnership between Russia and North Korea, describing them as allies.

Last month, North Korea confirmed for the first time that it had sent troops to Russia under a mutual defense treaty to support Moscow in the conflict. This confirmation follows last year's signing of a comprehensive strategic partnership between Pyongyang and Moscow, which includes pledges of mutual military support in the event of an attack by a third party.

Additionally, Moscow announced last month that it would consider providing military assistance to North Korea under the terms of this agreement.