North Korea Acknowledges Sending Troops to Ukraine in Support of Russia’s Efforts
North Korea has officially confirmed it is sending troops to aid Russia in Ukraine, a move linked to a recent military treaty. Reports indicate heavy casualties among North Korean forces, which have drawn criticism and concern from the international community. President Putin has publicly praised the North Korean soldiers’ bravery and contributions to the war effort.
In a surprising turn of events, North Korea has for the first time confirmed it is dispatching troops to Ukraine to support Russia in its ongoing conflict. The admission came through a statement from North Korea’s Central Military Commission, which highlighted that leader Kim Jong Un has decided to send forces to partake in military operations against what they term “Ukrainian neo-Nazi occupiers.” The commission described these troops as making “an important contribution” to Russia’s efforts to reclaim territory in the Kursk region.
Despite the fervent declarations of support, reports from various intelligence agencies indicate that North Korean troops are incurring heavy losses. Observations suggest that they are being sent in waves against well-fortified Ukrainian positions, resulting in thousands of casualties. Recent assessments estimated that around 4,000 North Korean soldiers have either been killed or wounded since their involvement in the conflict began.
It is noteworthy that this marks North Korea’s first public acknowledgment of sending foreign troops to Russia. Before this, the North had been vocally supportive of Russia’s military operations against Ukraine. Intelligence from the U.S., South Korea, and Ukraine indicates that between 10,000 and 12,000 North Korean troops were sent to Russia last fall, although neither nation has released specific numbers regarding the current troop levels or casualties.
The decision to deploy these troops was reportedly formalized under a bilateral defense treaty signed in June 2024, which is described as the most substantial military agreement between North Korea and Russia since the Cold War. This pact obligates both countries to provide military assistance to each other in times of crisis.
Moreover, North Korea is also a significant supplier of conventional arms to Russia. Observers from South Korea and the U.S. are concerned that in exchange, Russia may provide advanced military technology to North Korea, potentially bolstering its nuclear capabilities.
Acknowledging the support from North Korea, President Putin expressed thanks for their involvement in the conflict and vowed to remember their contribution. He praised the courage of the North Korean fighters, stating that they “shoulder to shoulder with Russian fighters” have defended the homeland as if it were their own. Putin went on to express that the “Russian people will never forget the heroism of the DPRK special forces,” emphasizing the bond they share as allies in the battle for freedom.
In summary, North Korea’s confirmation of sending troops into Ukraine marks a significant development in international relations and military alliances. With reports indicating substantial battlefield losses for the North Koreans and concerns about potential arms exchanges between Russia and North Korea, this situation warrants close monitoring. The alliance implied by their recent treaty and shared military goals reflects a new chapter in both nations’ diplomatic and military strategies.
Original Source: www.the-express.com
