Kim Jong Un sent a message to Vladimir Putin reaffirming the deepening of ties between North Korea and Russia on August 14, 2026, as North Korea marked the anniversary of its liberation from Japan. Putin's message, released by the Russian presidency, congratulated Kim on the 81st anniversary of Japan's surrender in World War II and said the partnership would continue in all sectors. Kim expressed hope for future cooperation, citing a shared history of struggle and friendship. North Korea and Russia have increased military and technical cooperation since Pyongyang began deploying personnel and equipment to support Russia's war in Ukraine, described as the largest North Korean involvement in a conflict since the 1950s. On Saturday, the Russian frigate Pallada arrived at Wonsan port for a goodwill visit and was welcomed by North Korean provincial officials and Russian embassy staff, according to KCNA. South Korean President Lee Jae Myung called for dialogue between the two Koreas, urging a formal end to the 1950‑1953 armistice and proposing steps to curb Pyongyang's nuclear program. Pyongyang dismissed Lee's overtures, labeling United States‑South Korean military exercises as provocations. On Thursday, Putin visited a disputed island off Hokkaido, a move that prompted Japan's condemnation. The two countries have yet to negotiate a peace treaty to replace the Korean War armistice, and the future of their cooperation remains subject to diplomatic developments.