North Korea Acknowledges Troop Deployment to Support Russia in Ukraine War
North Korea has confirmed it deployed troops to aid Russia in the Ukraine conflict, signaling a strengthening partnership between the two. Kim Jong-un’s decision underscores a significant military contribution, notably in the Kursk region, as tensions escalate between Ukraine and Russia. In total, around 14,000 North Korean troops have been sent, amid heavy losses and ongoing disputes regarding military successes.
In a notable development, North Korea officially acknowledged its troop deployment to support Russia in the ongoing conflict with Ukraine. This confirmation came on Monday, under the directive of leader Kim Jong-un, asserting their significant role in what they term the liberation of Russian territory from Ukrainian control.
The state news agency, KCNA, underscored the recent military success in the Kursk region, proclaiming it exemplifies the “highest strategic level of the firm militant friendship” between North Korea and Russia. This statement follows Russia’s declaration that Ukrainian forces have been expelled from their last remaining positions in a certain Russian village, a claim Kyiv disputes, asserting its continued military engagement in the Belgorod region.
The Central Military Commission of North Korea’s Workers’ Party detailed that Kim made the decision to deploy troops as part of a comprehensive strategic partnership with Russia, an agreement struck last year with President Vladimir Putin. The commission elaborated that North Korean forces considered Russian territory as their own, further solidifying the alliance between the two nations.
In another interesting aspect, North Korean media quoted Kim Jong-un, referring to the troops as “heroes” who fought for justice, emphasizing their role in reinforcing national pride. Furthermore, KCNA highlighted North Korea’s pride in forming an alliance with Russia, a nation they regard as “powerful.”
Specific numbers indicate that North Korea may have deployed around 14,000 troops in total, including 3,000 reinforcements addressing earlier losses. Although these troops have struggled with heavy casualties due to a lack of armored vehicles and experience in drone warfare, reports suggest they have adapted rapidly to the battlefield.
In summary, North Korea’s admission of troop deployment in support of Russia marks a significant moment in the ongoing Ukraine conflict. The North claims to have contributed to military successes in the Kursk region, in what they describe as a deep alliance with Russia. As diplomatic ties strengthen between Pyongyang and Moscow, the implications for the war in Ukraine continue to evolve significantly, amidst both military and political complexities.
Original Source: www.cbc.ca
