North Korean Troops Participate in Russia's Victory Day Parade, Signaling Strengthened Military Ties
North Korean troops participated in Russia's Victory Day military parade in Moscow for the first time, as reported by Russia's Tass news agency. The parade, held on May 9, 2026, at Moscow's Red Square, featured North Korean soldiers marching in formation, carrying their national flag alongside a banner commemorating Russia's Victory Day. This event marks a significant display of the growing military relationship between North Korea and Russia. The participation of North Korean troops follows a strategic partnership treaty signed between North Korean leader Kim Jong-un and Russian President Vladimir Putin in June 2024, which included the deployment of approximately 15,000 North Korean combat troops to support Russia. Kim Jong-un also sent a congratulatory message to Putin, emphasizing the shared history of independence and prosperity between the two nations.