North Korean leader Kim Jong Un reiterated his pledge to unconditionally support Russian President Vladimir Putin, state media said, as the sanctions-defying alliance between the two countries raises security concerns in the region.

North Korean leader Kim Jong Un said he would "unconditionally support" Russia's war against Ukraine, state-run media reported Thursday, in the latest sign of growing military ties between the two countries.

North Korean leader Kim Jong Un reiterated support for Russian President Putin during a meeting with security aide Sergei Shoigu in Pyongyang. The alliance raises regional security concerns amid ongoing geopolitical tensions.