Putin Suggests North Korea’s Role in Ukraine Ceasefire Talks
Russian President Vladimir Putin has proposed that Ukraine could come under a temporary administration with the assistance of North Korea and other allies in peace talks. Recent reports indicate North Korea has sent additional troops to Russia and continues to supply military equipment, highlighting their burgeoning military collaboration. Moreover, preparations for a visit by North Korean leader Kim Jong Un to Russia are underway, indicating strengthened ties.
TAIPEI, Taiwan – Russian President Vladimir Putin has suggested that Ukraine could fall under a “temporary administration” as part of a proposed peace process involving collaboration from North Korea and other allies. This statement was made amid reports from South Korea indicating that North Korea has sent an additional 3,000 soldiers to Russia in early 2023.
During a visit to Murmansk, Putin emphasized that peace efforts should include not only the United States but all BRICS countries, alongside North Korea. He stated, “This is not only the United States but also the People’s Republic of China, India, Brazil, South Africa, all BRICS countries,” and highlighted North Korea’s potential role.
Recently, the United States has brokered a preliminary ceasefire agreement aimed at ceasing hostilities in the Black Sea to ensure safe shipping routes. Nevertheless, Russia’s adherence to this ceasefire is contingent upon the lifting of specific Western sanctions, particularly those that impact its agricultural exports. European leaders remain skeptical, asserting that the timing is inappropriate for sanction relief.
China has adopted a nuanced position regarding the Russia-Ukraine conflict, balancing respect for Ukraine’s sovereignty with acknowledgment of Russia’s security concerns related to NATO’s expansion. Reports indicate that North Korea has sent up to 12,000 troops and provided ballistic missile support to Russia, marking its first substantial military engagement abroad since the Korean War. However, these claims remain unconfirmed by either Russia or North Korea.
The South Korean military confirmed that North Korea dispatched at least 3,000 additional soldiers to Russia recently, following approximately 11,000 previous deployments, with reports of significant casualties. The South’s Joint Chiefs of Staff (JCS) noted ongoing supplies of missiles, ammunition, and artillery to support Russia’s military campaign, alongside Pyongyang’s advancements in military technology.
Furthermore, North Korea appears to be conducting fewer winter military training sessions due to troop mobilization for construction projects, energy shortages, and preparations for further deployments to Russia. Recently, it displayed new military technology, including an airborne radar system and AI-equipped drones, potentially benefitting from Russian technical assistance in exchange for its military support.
In a related development, preparations are underway for North Korean leader Kim Jong Un’s forthcoming visit to Russia, signalling the strengthening of ties between Moscow and Pyongyang. Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Andrey Rudenko announced this to the press, confirming that it would be Kim’s third visit to Russia since 2019, further solidifying military cooperation following the mutual defense treaty signed last year.
In summary, Russian President Vladimir Putin’s call for North Korea’s involvement in Ukraine ceasefire discussions underscores the shifting alliances in the ongoing conflict. The increase in military support from North Korea and the potential deployment of additional troops signals deepening cooperation between the two nations. Furthermore, the complexities presented by international sanctions and relationships with BRICS nations add layers of intrigue to future peace negotiations.
Original Source: www.rfa.org
