Ukrainian intelligence has reported that North Korean soldiers are now entering the battlefield to support Russia in its ongoing war against Ukraine. According to a statement released by Ukraine’s defense intelligence agency on Telegram, Russia could receive up to 12,000 North Korean troops, including 500 officers and three generals. The agency claims intercepted calls reveal the integration of these troops in conflict zones, particularly in the Kursk region, where Ukrainian forces have held territory since August.
I had a call with the @President_KR of the Republic of Korea Yoon Suk Yeol. First and foremost, I thanked him for South Korea’s consistent support of Ukraine’s sovereignty and territorial integrity, as well as for the financial and humanitarian assistance already provided and…
— Volodymyr Zelenskyy / Володимир Зеленський (@ZelenskyyUa) October 29, 2024
U.S. and NATO officials have confirmed that around 10,000 North Korean troops are currently training in eastern Russia, with more expected to be sent to Ukraine’s border areas in the coming weeks. Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin voiced concern over North Korea’s involvement, describing the deepening military partnership between Moscow and Pyongyang as a “serious issue.” South Korea has also indicated it may reconsider its policy against providing Ukraine with military support due to North Korea’s actions.
Ukrainian intelligence claims to have intercepted Russian communications indicating frustration among Russian soldiers tasked with equipping and managing the North Korean troops. In these communications, Russian troops reportedly complained about a shortage of translators, ammunition, and other resources for the new forces. Each North Korean unit reportedly receives one translator and three Russian commanders per 30 soldiers, with only limited training in basic Russian commands.
This North Korean deployment, if confirmed, follows a military agreement signed in June between Russian President Vladimir Putin and North Korean leader Kim Jong Un, signaling a growing alliance between the two nations. Western intelligence suggests that North Korea views the conflict as an opportunity to provide its troops with combat experience. As diplomatic discussions continue in Washington and NATO headquarters, officials warn that the alliance between Russia and North Korea could further complicate the conflict and expand its geopolitical impact.
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