Pyongyang: North Korean leader Kim Jong Un has reaffirmed his country's unwavering alignment with Russia, declaring that Pyongyang will "always be with Moscow."

According to Anadolu Agency, Kim expressed his gratitude to Russian President Vladimir Putin for his congratulatory message following Kim's re-election as president of the State Affairs Commission. Kim described the relationship between North Korea and Russia as an "alliance of strong mutual support," highlighting the deepening ties between the two nations.

Kim stated, "Pyongyang will always be with Moscow. This is our choice and unshakable will." His remarks emphasize North Korea's commitment to maintaining and strengthening its relationship with Russia.

Putin, in his message, also expressed intentions to continue working closely with North Korea to further develop the comprehensive strategic partnership between Moscow and Pyongyang. This partnership was initiated in 2024 when both countries signed an agreement pledging mutual military support if either faces an attack from a third party.

Kim's re-election as president of the State Affairs Commission, North Korea's top governing body, occurred during the first session of the 15th Supreme People's Assembly held in Pyongyang. This re-election signifies his continued leadership and strategic direction for North Korea.

In August 2025, North Korea demonstrated its commitment to this alliance by sending around 1,000 military engineers to Russia's Kursk region. Their mission was to assist Russian forces in clearing land mines, which had been planted during conflicts with Ukrainian troops. This deployment followed an earlier dispatch of approximately 15,000 combat troops to support Russia's military efforts, as reported by South Korea's spy agency. The agency also claims that North Korea has lost 2,000 troops in the ongoing war.