Russia has requested an additional 30,000 soldiers from North Korea for the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, according to Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy. Zelenskyy indicated that preparations for these soldiers’ integration have been underway since June in the Russian region of Voronezh. Additionally, North Korea is reportedly preparing to supply more rocket launch systems, further escalating the situation.
Zelenskyy emphasized that the deployment of these soldiers and the provision of missile launch apparatus represent a threat not only to Ukraine but to the entire region. He pointed out that Russia is aiding North Korea in learning the art of warfare, enhancing its weaponry, and gaining real combat experience. “This poses a danger to all Asian populations who fall within the range of North Korean missiles,” he warned.
North Korea Reaffirms Support for Russia
Recently, North Korean Foreign Minister Choe Son Hui visited Moscow, where she met with President Vladimir Putin. Following this meeting, North Korean state media KCNA released a statement affirming Pyongyang’s unwavering support for “the entirety of the domestic and foreign policies of the Russian Federation.”
North Korea stands as one of the most significant allies for Moscow amid ongoing tensions. Previously, the isolated nation contributed up to 15,000 soldiers to support Russia’s military efforts in Ukraine. These troops played a role in aiding Russian forces to reclaim territories lost to Ukraine during a surprise offensive in Kursk. However, this involvement has come at a cost; estimates suggest that at least 2,000 North Korean soldiers have perished in the conflict.
In exchange for military support, analysts indicate that Russia provides the largely isolated North Korea with financial aid, military technology, and essential supplies, including food and energy resources. Reports from South Korea suggest that the casualty figures for North Korean soldiers during the fighting are notably high, with around 2,000 estimated to have lost their lives.
