North Korean leader Kim Jong-un sends message to Vladimir Putin on his 70th birthday

Kim Jong-un congratulated Vladimir Putin on his 70th birthday for "crushing challenges and threats from the United States"

Kim Jong-un and Vladimir Putin (

Image: ALEXANDER ZEMLIANICHENKO/POOL/EPA-EFE/REX)

North Korean leader Kim Jong-un sent a message on Friday congratulating Russian President Vladimir Putin on his 70th birthday, local media reported.

The authoritarian newspaper of the ruling Workers' Party, Rodong Sinmun, reported that the letter praised Putin for "crushing challenges and threats from the United States".

The anniversary message continued: "Russia reliably defends the dignity of the state and its fundamental interests against the challenges and threats of the United States and its vassal forces.

"Such a reality is unthinkable without your distinguished leadership and your strong will."

Mr. Jong-un said cooperation between North Korea and Russia has grown stronger recently like "never before".

The ruling Workers' Party newspaper, Rodong Sinmun (

Picture:

NHK World Japan)

He said he hoped their personal ties could become even stronger in the future and play a role in developing friendly relations between the two countries.

Russia and North Korea have apparently intensified their relations since President Putin ordered his troops to invade...