Kim Jong-un has reiterated his unconditional support for Russia's war against Ukraine during a meeting with Russian Security Council Secretary Sergei Shoigu in Pyongyang. The two countries have strengthened ties, with North Korean troops deployed in Russia's Kursk region. They discussed rebuilding efforts and commemorating North Korean soldiers' contributions. A monitoring group has classified their military cooperation as illegal, citing violations of UN sanctions and concerns over North Korea's missile and nuclear programs.