Pyongyang Says Putin Praises North Koreans’ ‘Heroism’ in Kursk Liberation

North Korean state media reported that Vladimir Putin praised the bravery and heroism of North Korean troops in recapturing Russia’s Kursk region from Ukraine during a call with Kim Jong Un. Kim pledged loyalty to last year’s mutual defence treaty and full support for Russia’s future actions. The leaders agreed to maintain close contact. The call comes ahead of Putin’s Alaska meeting with Donald Trump on ending the Ukraine war. North Korea has sent over 10,000 troops to aid Russia, with plans for more. Putin claims full control of Kursk, disputed by Ukraine. Trump plans to push for a peace deal.