BEIJING — Russian President Vladimir Putin on Wednesday thanked North Korea's Kim Jong Un for helping Russia oust Ukrainian soldiers from the Kursk region, saying they fought "heroically."
In a meeting with Kim in Beijing, Putin also praised their countries' "trust and friendship" and said that sending the troops was the North Korean leader's idea.
North Korea has become one of Russia's main allies since it invaded Ukraine three-and-a-half years ago, sending thousands of troops and container loads of weapons to help the Kremlin push Ukrainian forces out of western Russia, following Kyiv's shock incursion last year.
, This news data comes from:http://www.erlvyiwan.com
Putin meets Kim, praises North Korean troops in Russia
"On your initiative, as is well known, your special forces took part in the liberation of the Kursk region," Putin said in a meeting with his North Korean counterpart.
"This was in full accordance with our new agreement. I would like to note that your soldiers fought courageously and heroically."
"We will never forget the sacrifices made by your armed forces and the families of your servicemen," he added.
Putin made the comments in the Chinese capital, where the two leaders were attending a massive parade marking the 80th anniversary of Japan's World War II surrender.
- 25 countries suspend postal services to US over tariffs – UN
- UK refuses to invite Israeli government officials to London arms fair over the war in Gaza
- Anutin elected as Thailand's new prime minister
- Wife and ally of ousted SKorean president indicted by special prosecutors
- SC orders comment on petitions vs polls
- Ukraine drone attacks spark fires at Russia's Kursk nuclear plant, Novatek's Ust-Luga terminal.
- DILG to roll out nationwide unified 911 hotline on Sept. 11
- LPA off Leyte has low chance of becoming cyclone within 24 hours —Pagasa
- 'Perfect storm': UK fishermen reel from octopus invasion
- PH Defense chief slammed for 'bad mouthing' China
