Kim Jong Un Pledges to ‘Hold Hands’ With Putin , and Bolster Ties With Russia.<br />Kim Jong Un made the vow on June 12, <br />Russia's National Day, according to state media KCNA.<br />He also defended the Russian president's invasion <br />of Ukraine, declaring "full support and solidarity.".<br />He also defended the Russian president's invasion <br />of Ukraine, declaring "full support and solidarity.".<br />The DPRK people are extending full support and solidarity to the people of your country in their all-out struggle for implementing the sacred cause to preserve the sovereign rights, , Kim Jong Un, via KCNA.<br />... development and interests of the country against imperialists’ high-handed and arbitrary practices, Kim Jong Un, via KCNA.<br />Justice is sure to win and the Russian people will continue to add glory to the history of victory, Kim Jong Un, via KCNA.<br />Thanks to your correct decisions <br />and guidance, the struggle of Russian people to foil the hostile forces’ escalating threats and challenges to deprive Russia of its sovereignty, security and peaceful life <br />has entered a new decisive phase, Kim Jong Un, via KCNA.<br />The North Korean leader also called <br />for "closer strategic cooperation" <br />with Russia, NBC News reports. .<br />Kim said he looks forward to , "holding hands firmly with the <br />Russian president, in conformity with the <br />common desire of the peoples of the two countries <br />to fulfil the grand goal of building a powerful country.".<br />Kim's remarks come as Ukraine has <br />launched a counteroffensive in the Zaporizhzhia region, 'The Hill' reports. .<br />Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky confirmed that "counteroffensive, <br />defensive actions" are under way. .<br />Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky confirmed that "counteroffensive, <br />defensive actions" are under way. .<br />I am in touch with our commanders of different directions every day. Everyone is positive. Pass this on to Putin, Volodymyr Zelensky, president of Ukraine, via statement
