North Korea Confirms Troop Deployment to Aid Russia in Ukraine Conflict
North Korea has confirmed it sent troops to Russia to assist in Ukraine, marking the first acknowledgment of such troops’ deployment. Estimates suggest 10,000 to 12,000 troops were dispatched, and reports indicate heavy casualties. Kim Jong Un’s statements emphasize a commitment to the mutual defense treaty and support for Russia’s war efforts, while concerns grow over the consequences of conventional and potential high-tech weapons exchanges.
North Korea has officially confirmed deployment of its troops to support Russia in the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. Kim Jong Un’s statement marked the first acknowledgment from the North Korean government regarding this military involvement. It’s reported that around 10,000 to 12,000 North Korean troops were sent to Russia last year amidst growing concerns from US, South Korean, and Ukrainian intelligence agencies regarding troop movements.
The Central Military Commission of North Korea’s ruling Workers’ Party stated that the deployment is aimed at combatting Ukrainian forces, referring to them as “neo-Nazi occupiers.” Mr. Kim emphasized that these troops are fighting for justice, highlighting their role as heroes of their homeland. This marks an escalation in North Korea’s military engagement in the region.
According to South Korea’s military sources, an additional 3,000 combat troops were deployed to Russia earlier this year following reported heavy casualties among North Korean soldiers on the frontline. Estimates from South Korea’s Joint Chiefs of Staff suggest around 4,000 North Korean soldiers may have been killed or wounded.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky had indicated that similar casualty figures were reported for North Korean personnel, though U.S. estimates remain significantly lower, at around 1,200. In March, during a meeting with Russian security official Sergei Shoigu, Kim reaffirmed his solid support for Russia’s military operations, reiterating the commitments under a mutual defense treaty.
Additionally, discussions are underway concerning a possible visit by Kim to Moscow, as per comments from Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Andrei Rudenko. Meanwhile, North Korea continues to supply a variety of conventional weapons to Russia, raising concerns in South Korea and the U.S. about a potential exchange of high-tech weaponry that could bolster North Korea’s nuclear capabilities. Economic assistance from Russia to North Korea is also anticipated.
Despite being highly disciplined and well-trained, North Korean soldiers reportedly face challenges on the battlefield, suffering disproportionately from drone and artillery strikes due to their inexperience. Nevertheless, Ukrainian military intelligence acknowledges that these troops are gaining valuable combat experience, contributing to Russia’s strategy of overwhelming Ukrainian forces, particularly in the critical region of Kursk.
North Korea’s confirmation of troop deployment to support Russia in Ukraine highlights a significant escalation in the ongoing conflict. With thousands of troops reported sent and gains acknowledged on the battlefield, the situation raises broader concerns about military alliances, the ease of warfare, and the implications for regional stability. As both nations navigate this complex partnership, the potential exchange of military technology and economic aid looms, further complicating the geopolitical landscape.
Original Source: www.expressandstar.com
