PYONGYANG — North Korean leader Kim Jong-un has expressed gratitude to Russian President Vladimir Putin for his offer of help with the recovery from recent severe rain damage. The offer and Kim's response underscore a moment of international cooperation amid North Korea's ongoing struggle with flood-related disasters.
According to Yonhap News Agency, Putin extended a message of sympathy and an offer of immediate humanitarian support to North Korea on Saturday, responding to the significant damage caused by recent floods and heavy rainfall. In return, Kim conveyed his sincere thanks and noted the importance of support from a "genuine friend" during such difficult times.
Kim emphasized that North Korea would continue its recovery efforts in line with its established plans and state measures already underway to repair the flood damage. He also stated that should further aid become necessary, North Korea would reach out to its "truest friends" in Moscow.
This diplomatic exchange occurs as North Korea has remained silent on a recent offer of humanitarian aid from South Korea, proposed last Thursday to address the flood impacts. Reports indicate that the flooding, particularly severe in the border city of Sinuiju and Uiju County in North Phyongan Province, has resulted in significant casualties, with potential deaths and missing persons numbering around 1,000 according to South Korean media.