Moscow: Russian President Vladimir Putin on Monday reaffirmed his country's thanks for North Korea's support to Moscow in retaking its border region of Kursk, where Ukraine had launched an incursion in August last year.

According to Anadolu Agency, in a statement released by the Kremlin, Putin said that units of the North Korean army played an active role in pushing Ukrainian troops out of the border region 'in full compliance with international law' and the strategic partnership deal signed between Moscow and Pyongyang in November 2024.

Putin expressed appreciation for the North Korean involvement, stating that their actions were based on solidarity, justice, and comradeship. He extended gratitude to the President of State Affairs Comrade Kim Jong-un, as well as the leadership and people of the DPRK.

Furthermore, Putin acknowledged the heroism and dedication of North Korean soldiers, praising their special training and valor in fulfilling their duties. He expressed confidence that the friendship and cooperation between Russia and North Korea, forged on the battlefield, would continue to develop successfully.

On Saturday, Chief of the Russian General Staff Valery Gerasimov announced that Russia had regained control of the border region of Kursk, further acknowledging the participation of North Korean soldiers in the military actions. This marked the first official confirmation of Pyongyang's involvement in the Russia-Ukraine war, which began in February 2022.

Ukraine's General Staff, however, refuted Gerasimov's remarks, stating that Kyiv's defensive operations in the region are still ongoing and describing the operational situation as "difficult."