North Korean troops in Ukraine: A new chapter for Russia
Washington is investigating reports of North Korean soldiers' involvement in the war in Ukraine. This is in response to the latest revelation by Volodymyr Zelensky, who discussed Ukrainian intelligence's findings. According to John Kirby, if confirmed, it would represent a "new level of desperation by Putin."
16 October 2024 06:34
The spokesperson for the U.S. National Security Council, John Kirby, announced on Tuesday that confirmation of the presence of North Korean soldiers in Ukraine could indicate a "new level of desperation by Putin." Kirby referenced media reports suggesting the possible involvement of North Korean troops in the fight against Ukrainian forces.
This, if true, would represent a significant deepening of that relationship [between North Korea and Russia]. It would also, if true, indicate what I think can only be classified as a new level of desperation by Putin as he continues to try to make progress in Ukraine, he said.
On Monday, Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelensky accused North Korea of effectively engaging in the war. The media also reported the creation of a "special Buryat battalion" within the Russian army, which is said to consist of North Korean citizens. According to the Ukrainian Pravda portal, this unit might be deployed to fight in the Kursk region, where Ukrainian troops have operated since August 6th.
The United States on the North Korea-Russia alliance
Spokesperson John Kirby noted that the United States is still examining these reports. If they turn out to be true, it could further deteriorate international relations and strengthen the military alliance between North Korea and Russia.
The Polish Press Agency reminds us that although similar information has surfaced before, its confirmation remains of interest to international intelligence services. This completely changes the perception of Russia's current alliances.