Story perspectives

Kim Jong Un Honors Fallen Troops, Boosts Nuclear Deterrent

1/6/2026

Center

Kim Honors Fallen Soldiers

Kim Jong Un visited a new cemetery and war memorial in Pyongyang dedicated to North Korean troops who died fighting alongside Russia in Ukraine.
Kim Jong Un and his daughter Ju Ae participated in tree-planting at the site.
North Korea sent about 14,000 soldiers to Ukraine under a defense pact with Russia, with over 6,000 killed.
Kim oversaw missile launches and urged a developed nuclear deterrent amid ongoing tensions.

Right

Kim Strengthens Russia Alliance

Kim Jong Un, the North Korean leader, said troops fighting alongside Russia in Ukraine are a "strong pillar" of the nation in his New Year message, highlighting the Russia alliance.
He oversaw hypersonic missile tests.
Analysts say these moves are part of preparations for an upcoming Workers’ Party congress, with the regime condemning U.S. actions in Venezuela as justification to expand its arsenal.

History

Historical Context

In 2022, North Korea formalized a defense pact with Russia, sending approximately 14,000 soldiers to support Russian military efforts in Ukraine. This alliance has resulted in significant casualties, with over 6,000 North Korean soldiers reported killed. As tensions rise with the U.S., Kim Jong Un's actions, including missile tests and honoring fallen troops, indicate a deepening commitment to this partnership, potentially destabilizing the region further.

1 of 3

Kim Honors Fallen Soldiers

Kim Jong Un visited a new cemetery and war memorial in Pyongyang dedicated to North Korean troops who died fighting alongside Russia in Ukraine.
Kim Jong Un and his daughter Ju Ae participated in tree-planting at the site.
North Korea sent about 14,000 soldiers to Ukraine under a defense pact with Russia, with over 6,000 killed.
Kim oversaw missile launches and urged a developed nuclear deterrent amid ongoing tensions.

1 / 3