Kim Jong-un Vows Stronger Russia Ties in Victory Day Message to Putin

Kim extended his "sincerest congratulations" on the occasion of the 81st Victory Day and expressed satisfaction with the current "brilliant history of independence, dignity, peace and prosperity" shared by the two countries, according to the North's Korean Central News Agency (KCNA).

"Reaffirming the stand of the government of the Democratic People's Republic of Korea (DPRK) to give top priority to and steadily develop the alliance-like comprehensive strategic partnership between our two countries, I affirm once again that we will always faithfully fulfill the obligations under the inter-state treaty between the DPRK and Russia," Kim said, using the North's official name.

In June 2024, Kim and Putin signed a "comprehensive strategic partnership" treaty, effectively reviving the two countries' Cold War-era military alliance.

After the signing, Pyongyang deployed around 15,000 combat troops to support Russia in its war against Ukraine and deepened bilateral cooperation on multiple fronts, Yonhap news agency reported.

Victory Day is a national holiday in Russia. Public offices, schools and most businesses are closed for the celebrations. There may be changes in public transport routes due to parades and street performances.

The anniversary of the defeat of Nazi Germany is the second most widely celebrated holiday after New Year. It is the highlight of the Russian calendar and an integral part of Russian culture, yet surprisingly for such an important event it is younger than most of the population.

Victory Day marks Germany's surrender to the Soviet Union in 1945. It became the end of the Great Patriotic War for the USSR, which lost about 25 million citizens in the four years of fighting. Interestingly, until its 20th anniversary (May 9, 1965), Victory Day was not a major holiday, unlike, for instance, May 1, and was considered a work day. Apart from the anniversaries in 1965 and 1985, Victory Day celebrations in the Soviet Union did not feature a military parade. This tradition started in 1995.

- IANS