Russian President Vladimir Putin has expressed condolences to North Korean leader Kim Jong Un following devastating floods that have ravaged the country. The Kremlin announced on Saturday that Putin had sent a telegram to Kim, offering words of sympathy and support to those who lost loved ones in the storm. Putin also pledged immediate humanitarian assistance to help North Korea recover from the disaster.
In response, North Korea stated on Sunday that Putin’s message had been conveyed to Kim, who deeply appreciated the gesture. Kim emphasized the strong friendship between Russia and North Korea, noting that the “special emotion towards a genuine friend” was felt during this difficult time. However, Kim also mentioned that while he would be grateful for any aid, the country had already implemented its own measures to address the situation.
The North Korean government has confirmed a record downpour on July 27, resulting in widespread flooding that submerged farmland and damaged homes. While initial reports suggested a significant number of casualties, the official North Korean news agency, KCNA, later claimed there were no casualties in the Sinuiju area, which was previously reported to have suffered the most damage.
Russia and North Korea have been allies since the North’s founding after World War II, with their relationship growing stronger in recent years, particularly after Russia’s invasion of Ukraine in 2022. The two countries have been accused of cooperating on arms deals, with North Korea allegedly supplying weapons to Russia for use in the ongoing conflict.
Meanwhile, South Korea has offered urgent support to the victims of the floods, with media reports suggesting a possible death toll as high as 1,500. However, Kim dismissed these reports as a smear campaign aimed at tarnishing North Korea’s image. The isolated and impoverished nation, known for its weak infrastructure and vulnerability to natural disasters due to deforestation, faces immense challenges in coping with the aftermath of the floods.
