North Korea Deepens Ties With Russia, Sending Thousands to Fight Against Ukraine

North Korea confirmed Monday it has sent thousands of troops to Russia to support its war effort in Ukraine, marking the first official acknowledgment of the deployment.

Leader Kim Jong Un authorized the combat mission under a mutual defense treaty, according to the Central Military Commission of the Workers’ Party. State media quoted Kim describing the effort as aimed at “annihilating Ukrainian neo-Nazi occupiers” and aiding Russian forces in liberating the Kursk region.

U.S., South Korean, and Ukrainian intelligence estimates suggest 10,000–12,000 North Korean troops were sent last fall, with additional reinforcements deployed earlier this year. South Korea reported around 4,000 North Korean casualties, while U.S. estimates are lower.

North Korea has also provided Russia with large quantities of conventional weapons. Western officials warn that Moscow could reward Pyongyang with high-tech military technologies, boosting Kim’s nuclear ambitions.

Despite being well-trained, North Korean troops have suffered from a lack of battlefield experience and terrain knowledge. Ukrainian officials say their involvement has bolstered Russia’s strategy of overwhelming Ukrainian defenses with sheer numbers.

Sources

• Associated Press – MBFC Rating