Putin Pledges Aid to Flood-Hit North Korea

Russian President Vladimir Putin has pledged humanitarian aid to North Korea amidst severe flooding that has devastated thousands of homes and caused an unspecified number of casualties. North Korean leader Kim Jong Un thanked Putin but stated that he would only ask for help 'if necessary,' while rejecting South Korea’s aid offer amidst accusations of a smear campaign by South Korean media. Kim criticized South Korea for allegedly exaggerating the death toll, which Seoul claims could be as high as 1,500. Despite strained relations and ongoing hostility, South Korea’s government expressed willingness to provide urgent humanitarian assistance. Heavy rains from Tropical Storm Gaemi have particularly affected the northwestern regions of Sinuiju and Uiju, causing significant damage to homes and farmland. The situation underscores the complexities of inter-Korean relations and the broader geopolitical tensions involving North Korea.