Kim backs Ukraine invasion as Putin visits North Korea

PYONGYANG, North Korea

North korea leader, Kim Jong Un has said he "fully supports" Russia's invasion of Ukraine as Putin visits North Korea after 24 years.

The two leaders hailed ties between their countries after they held talks following Putin's overnight arrival.

Putin received a red-carpet welcome, including roses, waving crowds and ceremonial gunfire at a grand military parade.

The Russian president thanked Kim for inviting him to Pyongyang, and said he hopes the next meeting will take place in Moscow.

The two last met in Russia in September and vowed to strengthen military ties.

The US and South Korea accuse the North of supplying Russia with artillery in exchange for food and military aid.

Both countries deny this but Putin is in search of allies since the invasion of Ukraine turned him into a pariah in the West.

After North Korea, Putin will visit long-time ally Vietnam, where he is expected to discuss trade