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Over 10,000 North Korean Troops Deployed in Russia for Ukraine War Support
South Korea reports 10,000+ North Korean troops in Russia, mainly in the Kursk region, to support the Ukraine war. This raises concerns among Western allies about escalating conflict.
ND
by News Desk
2024-11-05
Over 10,000 North Korean Troops Deployed in Russia for Ukraine War Support

South Korea's defense ministry announced on Tuesday that over 10,000 North Korean soldiers have arrived in Russia, with many deployed to the front-line Kursk region in support of Russia’s ongoing war in Ukraine. This alarming escalation has raised concerns about the involvement of a third state in the conflict.

 

The South Korean defense ministry spokesperson, Jeon Ha-kyou, confirmed that a substantial portion of the North Korean forces is positioned in front-line areas. This revelation coincides with similar reports from both the United States and Ukraine, highlighting the potential for a broader conflict involving North Korean troops on the battlefield.

 

Ukrainian intelligence estimates that approximately 12,000 North Korean troops, including 500 officers and three generals, are currently stationed in Russia, receiving training at military bases. President Volodymyr Zelenskyy called for an urgent response from Western allies, noting the increase in North Korean military personnel and expressing concern over the lack of adequate support from international partners.

 

Kyiv and Western officials have issued warnings that North Korean soldiers could soon be deployed in combat roles against Ukrainian forces. While some UN diplomats hope these troops will remain behind the front lines for logistical support, the Pentagon has indicated that North Korean forces would become legitimate military targets should they enter the battlefield.

 

Pentagon spokesman Pat Ryder stated, “All indications are that they will provide some type of combat or combat support capability.” This statement raises the stakes, as Ukrainian forces are prepared to take necessary actions to defend against any threats posed by the North Korean troops.

 

Reports from South Korean media suggest that North Korean soldiers have already faced casualties, with claims of up to 40 troops killed in action. Ukrainian officials have also reported targeting North Korean military personnel during combat in the Kursk region.

 

The implications of this alliance between North Korea and Russia extend beyond troop deployments. Discussions between South Korean officials and the European Union’s foreign policy chief have raised concerns over the potential exchange of military technology, including nuclear or ballistic missile capabilities, from Russia to North Korea.

 

As geopolitical tensions mount, North Korea has continued its missile tests, launching a series of ballistic missiles into the sea off its eastern coast. Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Andrey Rudenko responded to these tests, framing them as a justified security measure in light of perceived US provocations.

 

The evolving situation in Ukraine, now complicated by North Korea’s involvement, calls for careful monitoring and strategic responses from the international community.
Tagged:

Russia

Geopolitics

NorthKorea

ukrainewar

MilitaryConflict
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