Putin Confirms North Korea’s Military Support in Ukraine Conflict

Vladimir Putin has officially recognized the involvement of North Korean troops in the Ukraine war, marking a significant alignment between the two nations. During a Kremlin press conference, he praised the North Koreans for their professionalism and courage in combat. Reports suggest North Korea has deployed about 15,000 soldiers, with considerable losses on their side.

In a significant development during a press conference at the Kremlin, President Vladimir Putin has officially recognized the involvement of North Korean military personnel in the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. This marks a notable shift as it confirms North Korea’s support for Russia’s war efforts. During his address, President Putin expressed gratitude towards leaders from thirteen countries who provided their national armed forces to participate in the recent parade held on Red Square.

Putin was keen to specifically thank the commanders of the Korean People’s Army for their roles in combat actions along the front lines. He stated his pleasure in relaying “the warmest words to the soldiers and commanders of the DPRK special forces units,” who he noted worked alongside Russian fighters. He characterized their participation in the operations targeting areas in the Kursk region as commendable, stating htey performed their tasks “professionally and voluntarily.”

The Russian President emphasized the North Korean military’s bravery and professionalism during their operations. He stated that they had displayed remarkable heroism, great preparation, as well as excellent training, which he commended during his remarks. This recognition could imply a strengthening of military ties between North Korea and Russia as both nations stand against the backdrop of international criticism regarding their actions.

Previously, in late April 2025, North Korea had confirmed for the first time that it had deployed troops to support Russia amid the conflict. This was the first official acknowledgment from Russia of North Korean forces partaking in the war. These forces are primarily engaged in combat missions focused in the Kursk region, close to the Ukraine border.

Intelligence reports from South Korea suggest that as many as 15,000 North Korean soldiers have been sent to assist Russian forces. As of early May, North Korean troop losses have been significant, with estimates indicating around 4,700 personnel have fallen, including approximately 600 fatalities. Meanwhile, the General Staff of the Armed Forces of Ukraine reported that North Korean forces have suffered around 4,000 battlefield losses, with an alarming number of injuries reaching about 3,000.

This announcement marks a turning point in the Ukraine conflict, underscoring the true scale of international militarization in certain factions of the war. The implications of North Korea’s involvement and the acknowledgment from Russian leadership may resonate on multiple fronts, including geopolitical dynamics and military strategies in the region.

In summary, President Vladimir Putin has acknowledged North Korea’s military involvement in the Ukrainian war, a move signaling stronger ties between Russia and North Korea. This development comes at a time when both nations are under significant international scrutiny. With reports suggesting substantial losses on the North Korean side, the situation illustrates the complexities and human costs associated with the ongoing conflict in Ukraine.

Original Source: newsukraine.rbc.ua