North Korean leader Kim Jong-un confirmed that his country will continue to strengthen its relations with Russia, stressing that cooperation between the two countries is a strategic priority during the current phase. The remarks came in a congratulatory letter sent by Kim to Russian President Vladimir Putin on the occasion of the anniversary of victory in World War II, where he noted Pyongyang's commitment to developing partnership and coordination with Moscow. Relations between North Korea and Russia have been increasingly rapprochement in recent months, amid rising political and military tensions on the international stage.