North Korea Unveils First 'Nuclear-Powered' Sub As Kim Tells Putin Their Nations Are "Sharing Blood, Life & Death In Same Trench"

North Korea and Russia have been deepening their defense relations, particularly since the start of the Ukraine war. Initially, North Korea's deployment of thousands of troops to assist Russia was kept secret, but it was later reported by the international press. The last year has seen North Korea openly acknowledge its involvement in the war, with Kim Jong Un stating that the two countries have bonded through "blood, life and death" during the conflict. In his New Year's greetings to Russian President Vladimir Putin, Kim described 2025 as a "really meaningful year" for their partnership. North Korea has not only sent troops to Ukraine but has also supplied Russia with artillery shells, missiles, and long-range rocket systems. In return, Moscow has provided North Korea with financial support, military technology, and supplies of food and energy. Kim Jong Un has praised the bravery of North Korean soldiers who died in combat, and Putin has also commended their role in pushing back the Ukrainian occupation of southern Kurks oblast. The strengthening of ties between North Korea and Russia has significant implications for global geopolitics, particularly given North Korea's recent unveiling of its first nuclear-powered submarine. The submarine is seen as a challenge to American naval dominance in the region, and its construction is part of Kim's five-year military expansion plan. The deepening alliance between North Korea and Russia is likely to lead to further provocative actions from Pyongyang, including missile tests, in the coming year.