Nairobi: Russian President Vladimir Putin met with North Korean Foreign Minister Choe Son-hui on Sunday, expressing gratitude to Pyongyang for its military assistance in retaking Russia's Kursk region, as reported by the Kremlin.

According to Anadolu Agency, Putin praised the contribution of the Korean People's Army fighters in the liberation of the Kursk region during a meeting also attended by Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov and presidential foreign policy aide Yury Ushakov. Putin emphasized the development of bilateral relations in various sectors and requested Choe to convey his greetings to North Korean leader Kim Jong Un.

Putin expressed his appreciation for the mutual understanding and friendly relations between Russia and North Korea, underscoring the importance of these ties. Choe Son-hui, in response, reiterated North Korea's unwavering support for Russia, highlighting the Democratic People's Republic of Korea's commitment to defending Russia's sovereignty and addressing the crisis in Ukraine.

Choe also delivered a message from Kim Jong Un, referring to Putin as the North Korean leader's 'closest and dearest friend,' and promised to personally convey Putin's greetings to Kim. The deepening of political and military ties between Russia and North Korea was marked by a comprehensive strategic partnership treaty signed in June 2024, which includes mutual assistance provisions.

The cooperation between the two countries was further exemplified in 2024 and 2025 when North Korean troops supported Russian forces in reclaiming territory in the southern Kursk region following an incursion by Ukraine.