Zelenskyy claims Russia deploying North Korean troops in Kursk region
A road sign shows the distance to the Russian town of Kursk near the destroyed border crossing in the Sumy region on Aug. 13, 2024 (AFP Photo)
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy announced on Saturday that Russia has started deploying North Korean soldiers to assault Ukrainian positions in the Kursk region. In his evening address, Zelenskyy stated that there was “preliminary evidence” indicating that North Korean troops are now participating in attacks, with “a noticeable number” of them involved.
According to Zelenskyy, these soldiers are being integrated into Russian military units and are taking part in operations within the Kursk area, where Ukraine has launched an incursion since August. He further noted that there is speculation that North Korean soldiers could be used in other areas along the front line as well, adding that their “losses” are already being recorded.
Zelenskyy’s comments come after reports last month that approximately 11,000 North Korean troops had been stationed in the Kursk region. These forces, he added, have already sustained casualties.
Washington and Seoul have previously accused Pyongyang of sending more than 10,000 soldiers to assist Russia, following a landmark defense pact signed between the two countries earlier this year.
Since Russia’s invasion of Ukraine in February 2022, the relationship between North Korea and Russia has strengthened, with Moscow seeking to bolster its military capabilities through North Korean support.
Russia has faced significant challenges in the Kursk region, initially taken by surprise by Ukraine’s incursion. However, Moscow has managed to regain ground, halting Ukraine’s advance and reinforcing its position in the region.
