Kim Jong Un Justifies North Korea’s Role in Russia-Ukraine War
Kim Jong Un has justified North Korea’s involvement in the Russia-Ukraine war as a sovereign right, stating it supports a ‘brother nation.’ He indicated readiness to use military force against perceived U.S. provocations. Reports reveal over 10,000 North Korean troops were sent to Russia, with some casualties recently noted in ongoing skirmishes. The U.S. believes North Korean soldiers are actively engaged in combat operations against Ukraine.
North Korean leader Kim Jong Un has publicly justified his country’s involvement in the Russia-Ukraine war, claiming it as a sovereign right aimed at supporting a “brother nation.” This declaration was made during a recent statement reported by state media, KCNA. Kim asserted, “Our participation in the conflict was just, and it falls within the sovereign rights of our Republic,” thereby reinforcing Pyongyang’s stance on international conflicts that involve perceived threats to its allies.
Notably, he expressed admiration for North Korean soldiers involved in military operations, calling them “heroes and the highest representatives of the nation’s honour.” Furthermore, Kim drew attention to the situation between North Korea and the United States, stating that his administration would not hesitate to deploy military force should the U.S. continue what he termed military provocations against Russia.
Until late April, North Korea had not officially acknowledged its dispatch of over 10,000 troops and military resources to Russia. This substantial military collaboration has strengthened under a strategic partnership agreement between Kim and Russian President Vladimir Putin, established last year. Reports detail that North Korean troops faced lethal encounters with Ukrainian forces, leading to casualties of about 30 soldiers in a skirmish along Russia’s Kursk border.
As of February, North Korean troops were reportedly withdrawn from the conflict, although Ukrainian military officials noted the absence of engaging confrontations with them. Oleksandr Kindratenko, a spokesperson for Ukrainian Special Operations Forces, indicated that the withdrawal may have been prompted by significant losses suffered by the North Korean soldiers.
In a disturbing account from Ukrainian officials, it has been suggested that some injured North Korean troops resorted to self-detonation with grenades to avoid capture. The military intelligence agency of Ukraine, known as GUR, revealed ongoing tensions in the Kursk area, where Russian forces have struggled against Ukrainian advances, indicating that at least three other North Korean servicemen are missing in separate localities nearby.
The White House has responded to these developments, expressing belief that North Korean troops are actively engaged in combat operations on the front lines of the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. This involvement underscores the depth of military collaboration between Pyongyang and Moscow, raising concerns about the implications for stability in the region.
In summary, Kim Jong Un’s recent statements justify North Korea’s role in the Russia-Ukraine conflict, framing it as a defense of allied interests. His remarks highlight the escalating military ties between North Korea and Russia, amidst reports of significant casualties among North Korean forces. As the situation evolves, the implications for international relations, especially concerning U.S. interests, remain critical. The White House’s acknowledgment of North Korean troop involvement signals growing concern about the ongoing conflict’s regional impact.
Original Source: www.abc.net.au
