Putin thanks Kim for unwavering support at summit, including on Ukraine

SUMMARY
Russian President Vladimir Putin and North Korean leader Kim Jong Un held a significant summit in Pyongyang, marking Putin's first visit to North Korea in 24 years. The leaders emphasized their nations' close ties amidst international isolation. Putin praised North Korea's resilience against US-led pressure and discussed developing alternative economic mechanisms outside Western control. The visit included a warm reception with a subdued ceremony compared to previous state visits. Discussions focused on deepening bilateral relations, potentially signing a strategic partnership treaty covering security and economic cooperation, aimed at enhancing North Korea's economic prospects within a Russian-led Eurasian framework.