Moscow Confirms North Korean Troops in Kursk Region Amid Ongoing Conflict
Moscow has now acknowledged that North Korean troops are fighting alongside Russian forces in the Kursk region, following an agreement made in 2024. Russian General Valery Gerasimov praised their combat abilities, while Ukraine disputes claims of a Russian regain of control in the area. The situation remains fluid as both sides continue their military operations.
In a significant development, Moscow has confirmed the deployment of North Korean troops alongside Russian forces in the Kursk region. This comes after an agreement with Kim Jong Un in 2024. Notably, Ukrainian forces launched an unexpected incursion into Kursk in August 2024, which raised alarms and prompted this collaboration.
Valery Gerasimov, Chief of the General Staff of the Russian Armed Forces, has publicly lauded North Korean military personnel for their contributions in this conflict. Gerasimov stated that these troops displayed “high professionalism, fortitude, courage, and heroism” while conducting combat missions alongside their Russian counterparts. This praise underscores North Korea’s involvement in what has become a contentious front in the ongoing conflict.
Reports estimate that up to 14,000 North Korean soldiers have been sent to bolster Russian military operations in Kursk. Although Russia had previously refrained from confirming their presence, Ukraine has consistently mounted allegations claiming that North Korea has been supplying Russia with critical military resources, including artillery, rocket systems, and ballistic missiles.
Amidst this backdrop, Gerasimov asserts that Russian forces have successfully regained control of the Kursk region, a statement that Ukraine has categorically denied. The Ukrainian government refuted these claims and emphasized that the conflict is far from settled.
In a recent statement, President Vladimir Putin remarked on the reclamation of approximately 1,300 square kilometers of territory in Kursk, hailing the Russian military’s efforts as crucial for future successes on the frontlines. Ukraine, however, firmly stated that military operations continue in the region and that their defense forces are maintaining their defensive positions, inflicting damage on the advancing foe with diversified weaponry and tactical maneuvers.
The confirmation of North Korean troops’ involvement in the Kursk region marks a notable shift in the dynamics of the Russian-Ukrainian conflict. High-ranking Russian officials have praised these troops, yet Ukraine remains steadfast, asserting that the battle is ongoing. As claims and counter-claims fill the air, the situation in Kursk is fraught with tension and uncertainty.
Original Source: www.livemint.com
