March 28, 2024
News

North Korea recognizes breakaway republics of Donetsk and Luhansk in Ukraine

Expert says move seeks to improve ties with Russia, as Kyiv swiftly severs diplomatic ties with Pyongyang

North Korea became the third country to recognize two Russia-backed separatist states in eastern Ukraine on Wednesday, prompting Kyiv to cut diplomatic ties with Pyongyang.

According to North Korean state media on Thursday, DPRK foreign minister Choe Sou Hui informed the breakaway regions that Pyongyang recognizes the “independence of the People's Republic of Donetsk and the People's Republic of Luhansk” and expressed the North’s desire to develop state-to-state relations.

Become a member for less than $4 per week.

  • Unlimited access to all of NK News: reporting, investigations, analysis
  • The NK News Daily Update, an email newsletter to keep you in the loop
  • Searchable archive of all content, photo galleries, special columns
  • Contact NK News reporters with tips or requests for reporting
Get unlimited access to all NK News content, including original reporting, investigations, and analyses by our team of DPRK experts.
Subscribe now

All major cards accepted. No commitments – you can cancel any time.