Pyongyang signals readiness to support Moscow “to the very end” — against the backdrop of a parade in Beijing seen as a show of unity among China, Russia, and North Korea. President Donald Trump responded with a sharp post on Truth Social.
What Kim Jong Un Said
During a meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin in Beijing, North Korean leader Kim Jong Un declared full support for Moscow. According to footage released by Russian state media, he stressed:
“If there is anything we can do to help Russia, we will definitely do it and will consider it a fraternal duty; we will do everything possible to assist Russia.”
This wording is more than a diplomatic courtesy. In the context of the ongoing war in Ukraine, it sounds like a pledge to expand assistance already being provided. Reports indicate Pyongyang ranks among Moscow’s key allies, with support that includes arms supplies and even the deployment of North Korean troops to operate alongside Russian forces.
Putin’s Response
The Russian president thanked Kim and addressed “the warmest words of gratitude to the Korean people,” calling North Korea’s contribution significant:
“Your soldiers fought courageously and heroically. We will never forget the sacrifices made by your armed forces and the families of your servicemen.”
Context: Beijing Parade and a Display of Unity
The Kim–Putin talks took place on the sidelines of a massive Victory Parade in Beijing on Wednesday — celebrations marking the 80th anniversary of Japan’s surrender in World War II and China’s victory over occupying forces. Observers see the event as a symbolic demonstration of a united front by Beijing, Moscow, and Pyongyang amid their international isolation.
China’s leader Xi Jinping invited 26 heads of state and walked shoulder to shoulder with Kim and Putin to the reviewing stand. As the BBC notes, this was the first public joint appearance of the three leaders, and the first time Kim Jong Un has attended an international summit at this level.
U.S. Reaction: A Post by President Donald Trump
Amid the parade, President Donald Trump published a sharp message on Truth Social, accusing Xi of conspiring with Russia and North Korea against the United States:
“Please give my warmest regards to Vladimir Putin and Kim Jong Un as you conspire against the United States of America.”
In a separate post, Trump recalled U.S. involvement and losses in China during World War II:
“Many Americans died in China’s quest for Victory and Glory. I hope that they are rightfully honored and remembered for their Bravery and Sacrifice!”
What Xi Jinping Said
In his brief remarks, Xi did not mention the U.S. directly, though he expressed gratitude to countries that aided China during the war. His main message projected strength and self-reliance:
“The Chinese people are a people who are not afraid of violence, who rely on their own strength, and are strong,” Xi declared.
Why It Matters
- Deepening Moscow–Pyongyang ties. Kim’s talk of a “fraternal duty” is a public pledge to expand support for Russia amid the war in Ukraine. According to Russian state media, that support already includes a military component.
- A symbolic gesture from Beijing. The parade hosted by Xi and attended by 26 leaders created the setting for the first joint public appearance by Putin, Kim, and Xi — a vivid tableau of a three-capital axis as confrontation with the West intensifies (as reported by the BBC).
- American response. President Donald Trump’s blunt statements underscore Washington’s view of the demonstrative rapprochement among the three leaders as a challenge to U.S. interests and a revision of the postwar order.
This article was prepared based on materials published by Politico. The author does not claim authorship of the original text but presents their interpretation of the content for informational purposes.
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