Putin Offers Flood Aid to North Korea Amid Strengthening Ties

Russian President Vladimir Putin has extended an offer of humanitarian aid to North Korea following severe flooding, as reported by KCNA. Relations between the two nations have been growing stronger, and Putin's message of support was delivered to Kim Jong Un via the Russian embassy. Kim thanked Putin but noted that domestic recovery efforts were already underway.

Russian President Vladimir Putin has extended an offer of humanitarian aid to North Korea, which has recently suffered from significant rainfall and flooding, according to North Korean state media outlet KCNA.

Relations between Russia and North Korea have been strengthening, with Putin's message being delivered to North Korean leader Kim Jong Un on Saturday. Putin expressed his 'willingness to provide immediate humanitarian support for recovery from the flood damage,' said KCNA.

While Kim expressed gratitude for the offer, he indicated that his government had already initiated recovery efforts, though he would request aid if necessary. Recent heavy rains have affected over 4,000 homes and isolated around 5,000 residents, as per KCNA reports. Kim has personally inspected the flooded areas and is overseeing rescue operations.

Meanwhile, KCNA did not address South Korea's recent proposal for relief supplies but criticized joint military drills conducted by South Korea and the U.S. Earlier, South Korea's unification ministry expressed readiness to discuss flood relief with North Korea's Red Cross, marking a rare outreach under President Yoon Suk Yeol.

Diplomatic and security ties between Pyongyang and Moscow have been intensifying in recent months, with both leaders exchanging visits and signing a 'comprehensive strategic partnership' pact in June.

(With inputs from agencies.)