North Korea’s Troop Deployment to Russia and Strengthening Ties Amidst Tensions
North Korea has deployed an additional 3,000 troops to Russia, preparing for a visit by Kim Jong-un. Reports indicate that military support persists despite previous casualties. Both countries are strengthening ties with potential diplomatic engagements, as North Korea continues its advancements in military technology amidst tensions with South Korea.
Recent reports indicate that North Korea has deployed an additional 3,000 troops to Russia amid ongoing preparations for a visit by North Korean leader Kim Jong-un to Moscow later this year. This information was disclosed by South Korean military officials, who noted that North Korea’s military support for Russia persists despite significant casualties in their previous deployments.
The potential visit by Mr. Kim would represent the first engagement between him and Russian President Vladimir Putin since June of the previous year, following their summit in Pyongyang. During that summit, both leaders signed a defense agreement and strengthened their military and economic cooperation, prompting significant interest in their upcoming interactions.
In the earlier months of this year, South Korea’s National Intelligence Service estimated that around 11,000 North Korean soldiers had previously been sent to the Russia-Ukraine conflict, with 4,000 reported casualties. The Joint Chiefs of Staff of South Korea confirmed that these additional troops were dispatched despite the heavy losses incurred, indicating a continuing commitment to Russia’s military efforts.
Furthermore, North Korea has reportedly supplied a substantial quantity of conventional weapons to Moscow, including short-range ballistic missiles and self-propelled howitzers. The South Korean military noted that this support might persist depending on the geopolitical situation.
Additionally, despite a prior unsuccessful attempt in May to launch a military satellite, North Korea is preparing for another launch with assistance from Russia. While there are no immediate indications of an upcoming launch, the military is closely observing North Korea’s technological advancements in this regard.
As part of its recent activity, North Korea has dismantled 11 transmission towers within the Demilitarized Zone, which were previously used to supply electricity to a defunct joint industrial park. This action appears to be a strategic move to sever ties with South Korea.
A mine explosion near the border recently resulted in North Korean casualties, highlighting ongoing risks associated with construction activities in the area. In addition, North Korea has reportedly scaled back its winter military training, reallocating resources towards factory construction and managing energy shortages, further demonstrating its shift in military priorities.
North Korea’s military support for Russia is exemplified by its recent troop deployments and the provision of conventional weapons, despite significant casualties. Preparations for high-level diplomatic visits reflect the strengthening ties between Pyongyang and Moscow. Additionally, North Korea’s actions to dismantle border infrastructure and reduce military training underscore its intent to sever relations with South Korea amidst advancing nuclear capabilities. With ongoing geopolitical tensions, North Korea appears to be positioning itself strategically for potential future negotiations.
Original Source: asianews.network
