North Korean artillery bolsters Russian forces near Kursk
North Korean artillery howitzers, originally intended for an attack on South Korea, are set to arrive at the front in the Kursk region in Russia, reports "The Telegraph".
North Korean 170 mm calibre howitzers, known as the M1989 Koksan, are to be sent to Russia. This weapon, designed for an attack on South Korea, is now meant to support Russian forces in the Kursk region. "The Telegraph" states that these are among the longest-range artillery systems in the world.
Support for Russia
According to Kyrylo Budanov, head of Ukrainian military intelligence, some of the howitzers may have already been sent. There are also reports of the withdrawal of North Korean soldiers from the front lines. "The Telegraph" notes that North Korean soldiers are training Russians in the handling of the transferred weapons.
At the end of December, recordings appeared of howitzers being transported by train. The weapons were to reach the front at the beginning of January. In one of the videos from the Kursk region, a North Korean soldier described the weapon as "a gift" from Kim for those fighting abroad.
Soldiers from North Korea
According to Ukrainian sources, North Korea sent about 10,000 soldiers to Russia to support operations in the Kursk region. In recent weeks, there have been reports of significant losses among North Korean soldiers. South Korean military reported preparations for the dispatch of additional soldiers.
On Monday, the Ukrainian military reported the temporary withdrawal of North Korean soldiers from the front line. The commander of Ukrainian special forces, known as "Puls", confirmed to Sky News that for two weeks he has not observed the presence of North Koreans at the front.
