Kim Jong Un inspects nuclear submarine project as Russia praises strategic ties

Thursday 25 December 2025 - 08:00

By: Sahili Aya

Kim Jong Un inspects nuclear submarine project as Russia praises strategic ties

North Korean leader Kim Jong Un has visited a facility linked to the construction of nuclear-powered submarines, while receiving a message from Russian President Vladimir Putin praising the close relationship between the two countries, according to North Korea’s state media.

The visit comes amid growing military cooperation between Pyongyang and Moscow, which has intensified since the outbreak of the war in Ukraine. Russia has publicly acknowledged the contribution of North Korean forces deployed on its territory, while analysts say Pyongyang has received economic assistance, military technology and energy supplies in return.

In a message reported by official media, Vladimir Putin described the partnership between Russia and North Korea as strong and resilient, highlighting what he called shared efforts and mutual support under a bilateral defence agreement signed last year.

Images released by state media showed Kim Jong Un inspecting a large submarine under construction at an indoor facility, accompanied by senior officials and his daughter. During the visit, Kim stressed the need to strengthen the country’s naval capabilities, particularly in response to regional security developments.

North Korean authorities have voiced concern over South Korea’s plans to develop nuclear-powered submarines in cooperation with the United States, viewing the move as a threat to regional stability. Kim reportedly ordered faster progress in modernising and reinforcing the country’s naval forces, including research into advanced underwater weapons.

The visit coincided with reports of a missile test conducted by North Korea, further underlining heightened military activity in the region. South Korean officials said they were monitoring the situation closely alongside their US counterparts.