Kim expresses full support for Russia's war in Ukraine - media

That's according to Yonhap, which cites the Russian propaganda news outlet TASS, Ukrinform reports.

"The government of the Democratic People's Republic of Korea ... expresses its full support and solidarity with the Russian government, Army and people in conducting the 'special military operation' [war] in Ukraine with a view to protecting sovereignty, security interests and territorial integrity," Kim was quoted as saying.

Kim said relations between the two countries are "entering a new period of prosperity," praising Russia's role in the global strategic balance and vowing to "strengthen strategic cooperation" with Russia.

Putin, in turn, thanked Kim for Pyongyang's support for Moscow's policy on Ukraine and said a new "fundamental document" has been prepared to serve as a basis for relations between the two countries.

Russian dictator Vladimir Putin on Wednesday morning began his first state visit to North Korea in the 24 years of his rule.

Following the negotiations, Putin and Kim are expected to sign an agreement on a comprehensive strategic partnership, which will increase the level of bilateral relations between their countries and allow the deepening of cooperation in all spheres, in particular, in the military sector.

Photo: Yonhap