Russian Soldiers Receive Medical Treatment in North Korea Amid Strengthened Ties
Russian soldiers wounded in Ukraine are receiving treatment in North Korea, as highlighted by Russia’s ambassador. This move underscores the strengthened relations between Russia and North Korea amidst growing tensions with the West. The ambassador noted that medical services are provided at no cost in North Korean facilities, with ongoing military and trade cooperation between the two countries.
Russian soldiers injured in the conflict in Ukraine are receiving medical treatment and rehabilitation in North Korea. Alexander Matsegora, the Russian ambassador to North Korea, disclosed this information during an interview with the state-controlled media outlet, Rossiyskaya Gazeta, on February 9. This collaboration reflects the strengthening ties between North Korea and Russia, particularly amidst growing geopolitical tensions with Western nations.
The strategic partnership agreement establishing deeper cooperation in trade, science, technology, and defense between Russia and North Korea was ratified in fall 2024. While this agreement outlines various collaborative efforts, it notably lacks any specific references to the medical care provided for injured Russian soldiers.
According to Ambassador Matsegora, wounded Russian military personnel can expect free treatment in what he described as “the best hospitals and sanatoriums” in North Korea. He noted that “hundreds” of these soldiers have already been sent for care, and when Russia proposed compensation for medical expenses, the North Koreans expressed offense and requested that such offers not be made again.
Furthermore, the ambassador indicated that children whose Russian parent soldiers died in Ukraine are enjoying vacations in North Korea, and both nations are working to establish university exchange programs. In addition to their medical exchanges, Russia also supplies North Korea with coal, food, and medicinal supplies.
Military collaboration between the countries progressed further in 2024 when Russian President Vladimir Putin and North Korean leader Kim Jong-un signed a mutual defense pact in June. Shortly thereafter, North Korea’s role in supporting Russia escalated, transitioning from supplying arms to deploying troops. Last fall, as part of this initiative, an estimated 12,000 North Korean soldiers were dispatched to support Russian operations in the Kursk Oblast area against incursions from Ukraine.
The ongoing treatment of Russian soldiers in North Korea highlights the deepening alliance between the two nations amidst international geopolitical challenges. With no mentions of these medical provisions in the official strategic partnership agreement, it raises questions on the implications of such military cooperation. As both countries solidify their relations through various means, their collaborative efforts are likely to continue shaping regional dynamics.
Original Source: kyivindependent.com
