Belarus leader gifts rifle to North Korea's Kim as they sign friendship treaty

Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko gifted North Korean leader Kim Jong Un a rifle and signed a friendship treaty in Pyongyang, strengthening cooperation between the two nations. The agreement aims to counter Western pressure and enhance collaboration across various sectors, including agriculture, information, and public health. Both leaders emphasized the importance of protecting sovereignty amid perceived violations of international law. Kim reciprocated with a sword and a vase featuring Lukashenko's portrait. Both Belarus and North Korea, facing Western sanctions for human rights abuses, support Russia's war in Ukraine, with North Korea reportedly supplying soldiers to the conflict. The treaty is intended to further stabilize bilateral relations between the two countries.

North Korean leader Kim Jong Un and Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko signed a friendship treaty in Pyongyang on Thursday, marking what they called a new stage in bilateral relations. The agreement aims to deepen ties between the two nations, both allies of Russia. Kim and Lukashenko expressed shared views on international issues, with Kim criticizing Western pressure on Belarus. Lukashenko's visit, which included a lavish welcome, underscores the growing cooperation between North Korea and Belarus, both of which have supported Russia's war in Ukraine. Belarus has allowed Russia to use its territory for military purposes, while North Korea has reportedly supplied Russia with ammunition.

North Korean leader Kim Jong-un and Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko signed a "friendship and cooperation" treaty in Pyongyang on Thursday, during Lukashenko's first visit to North Korea. The treaty was signed amidst Western sanctions and accusations of human rights violations against both nations, who also support Russia's war against Ukraine. According to Belarusian state news, Lukashenko emphasized the need for independent countries to cooperate more closely to protect their sovereignty, while Kim expressed support for Belarus' efforts to ensure stability and economic development. The treaty signifies a strengthening of ties between the two isolated nations, who previously met in China last year. North Korean state media confirmed the signing of the treaty.

In New Year's greetings exchanged in late December 2025, North Korean leader Kim Jong Un and Russian President Vladimir Putin hailed the strengthened ties between their countries. Kim stated that the relationship had been solidified through shared experiences in the Ukraine war, referring to "sharing blood, life and death in the same trench." Putin's earlier message praised North Korean troops' "heroic" role in Russia's Kursk region. Kim described the relationship as a "precious common asset" that should be carried forward. Intelligence agencies report that North Korea deployed thousands of troops to support Russia in Ukraine, a claim North Korea confirmed in April, acknowledging combat deaths.