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This Happened

This Happened—December 28: The Original Strongman Of North Korea

After serving in World War II as a Korean-contingent major in the Soviet Army, Kim Il-Sung became the first premier of the newly formed Democratic People’s Republic of Korea. Years later, he would become the nation’s supreme ruler.

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How did Kim Il-Sung become the first president of North Korea?

After serving as the first premier of the DPR, he became chairman of the Korean Workers’ (Communist) Party. After defeating domestic opposition and beating out his competition for power within the Korean Workers’ Party, he became North Korea’s absolute ruler.

Was Kim Il-Sung popular with North Koreans?

Both documentaries and state propaganda portray Kim Il-Sung as fearfully loved by his people, but admiration for the ruler never extended beyond the country's borders. Kim Il-Sung's image is hung in public transportation hubs and is placed prominently near the border crossings between China and North Korea.

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FOCUS: Russia-Ukraine War

Zelensky Should Cancel His Visit To Israel Right Now

After the postponement of Ukrainian president Zelensky's planned trip to Israel, there are voices now saying it should be cancelled outright. What's the price of Ukraine publicly declaring its support for the current actions of the Israeli government and military?

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy arrives for a ceremony to present the families of military heroes the Golden Star Order during a ceremony at the Mariinsky Palace, October 27, 2023 in Kyiv, Ukraine.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky at the Mariinsky Palace, October 27, 2023 in Kyiv, Ukraine.

Ukraine Presidency/Planet Pix/ZUMA
Serhii Sydorenko

-OpEd-

KYIV — Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky's planned visit to Israel on Tuesday was postponed after a weekend leak that revealed details of his arrival. Reports suggest that Zelensky remains eager to travel to Tel Aviv to express support for the Jewish state amidst the ongoing conflict.

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This risks becoming the President's most significant foreign policy blunder since the start of the Russian invasion.

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