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 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.

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.