Inside Putin’s phone call with Kim Jong Un

WorldPolitics
13 Aug 2025 • 4:02 PM MYT
The Independent
The Independent

The world’s most free-thinking newspaper

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  • Russian President Vladimir Putin and North Korean leader Kim Jong Un held a phone call to “reaffirm” their close relationship and discuss mutual concerns.
  • The call took place ahead of Putin's scheduled summit with Donald Trump in Alaska, where a ceasefire in Ukraine is expected to be discussed.
  • During the conversation, Putin reportedly shared “information in the context of the upcoming talks” with Donald Trump, though North Korea's statement did not mention this.
  • Putin commended North Korea's support for Russia and praised the "bravery and heroism" of North Korean soldiers deployed to the Kursk region in Ukraine.
  • North Korea has provided significant military support to Russia, including troops and equipment, and is expected to send more construction workers and deminers to Kursk.

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