North Korea, Russia reaffirm ties on Korean Liberation Day, as Kim sends Putin more troops

North Korean leader Kim Jong Un and Russian President Vladimir Putin reaffirmed their deepening ties on Korea's Liberation Day. Kim responded to Putin's congratulatory message on the 81st anniversary of Japan's World War Two surrender, with Putin stating cooperation would continue "in all the sectors." Kim expressed hope for the future of their relationship, which has strengthened since North Korea began deploying troops and weapons to support Russia's war in Ukraine. A Russian ship, the Pallada, also made a goodwill visit to Wonsan port.

Meanwhile, South Korean President Lee Jae Myung called for talks with North Korea to achieve peaceful coexistence, urging dialogue to formally end the 1950-1953 Korean War and explore ways to curb Pyongyang's nuclear program. Pyongyang has rejected these overtures.