Overview
- North Korean state media published Kim's letter on Jan. 9 quoting a pledge to respect and support all of Putin's policies and decisions on a permanent basis.
- KCNA said Kim sent the reply on Jan. 8 to a congratulatory note from Putin, whose contents Russian state media has not disclosed.
- Kim described ties with Putin as comradely and most precious, saying cooperation would continue across various spheres under their strategic partnership.
- South Korean and Western intelligence assess that North Korea has dispatched troops and supplied artillery shells, missiles and long-range rocket systems to Russia.
- Analysts report that Russia is providing North Korea with financial assistance, military technology, and food and energy supplies in return.