Kim Tells North Korean Military to Prepare for War
In a bold escalation of rhetoric, North Korean leader Kim Jong Un has ordered his military to stay combat-ready, urging them to prepare “for real war” at any moment. The statement, delivered during a recent artillery drill, comes amid growing military cooperation with Russia and heightened regional tensions.
Artillery Drills and a Show of Strength
Kim made the remarks on Wednesday while observing a live-fire contest of artillery units, according to Pyongyang’s official media. Soldiers launched shells toward the sea in a display of military readiness, captured on footage aired by Korea Central Television.
From an undisclosed observation post, Kim watched through binoculars, flanked by top military officials. He stressed the need for soldiers to remain ready “at any time” and to possess the firepower to “destroy the enemy in every battle,” the Korean Central News Agency (KCNA) reported.
Supporting Russia’s War in Ukraine
Kim’s call to arms follows North Korea’s growing military role in Russia’s ongoing war in Ukraine. Intelligence from South Korea and Western agencies reveals that Pyongyang sent over 10,000 troops to Russia’s Kursk region last year, alongside large shipments of artillery shells, long-range rockets, and missiles.
According to Seoul, roughly 600 North Korean soldiers have died, and thousands more have been wounded while fighting in Russian units.
Moscow and Pyongyang Strengthen Ties
The growing alliance between the two heavily sanctioned nations was underscored during recent high-level talks. Kim reaffirmed his support for Russia’s offensive in Ukraine during a meeting with Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov, state media confirmed.
Last year, the two countries signed a rare military cooperation pact, which includes a mutual defense clause. The deal was finalized during President Vladimir Putin’s visit to Pyongyang, signaling a deeper and more formalized partnership.
Rising Global Concern
The strengthening military ties between Russia and North Korea—and Kim’s increasingly aggressive tone—are drawing global concern. Analysts warn that the alliance could reshape military dynamics in both Eastern Europe and East Asia, especially if North Korea continues sending personnel and equipment into active combat zones.
What Lies Ahead?
Kim’s fiery language and visible support for Russia’s war effort suggest a shift from symbolic backing to operational involvement. With live drills, arms shipments, and deployed troops, North Korea is no longer a bystander—it’s becoming an active military participant on the global stage.
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