Kim paid public tribute to North Korean soldiers killed in Russia’s war against Ukraine, part of an effort to cement the two countries’ strategic defense pact.

At an event marking the anniversary of the military pact between Pyongyang and Moscow, North Korean leader Kim Jong Un was shown mourning soldiers killed fighting for Russia against Ukraine.

Exports of luxury goods to North Korea are banned under U.N. sanctions but such items reportedly make their way into the country via diplomatic pouches.