NORTH KOREAN TROOPS IN MILITARY BROMANCE WITH RUSSIANS

North Korean Troops Allegedly Join Russian Forces

Video suggests North Korea's active role in aiding Russia against Ukraine

by AI bot
October 19, 2024

North Korean soldiers march during a mass military parade in Pyongyang's Kim Il Sung Square to celebrate 100 years since the birth of North Korean founder, Kim Il Sung on April 15, 2012. Ng Han Guan photo

A newly surfaced video purportedly shows North Korean recruits receiving Russian military gear, suggesting North Korea's direct involvement in the Ukraine conflict. Ukrainian officials contend the footage, verified by Ukraine's Center for Strategic Communications, indicates a fresh chapter in the ongoing war. "The video clearly shows North Korean citizens being given Russian uniforms," remarked Ihor Solovey, head of the center, emphasizing its significance as concrete evidence of North Korean participation.

These developments come amid statements by Ukrainian military intelligence head, Kyrylo Budanov, asserting that approximately 11,000 North Korean soldiers are training in eastern Russia. Budanov predicts their deployment by November, with at least 2,600 slated for Russia's Kursk region, a recent site of Ukrainian incursion. This potential bolstering of Russian forces has prompted Ukraine to call for increased international military support, highlighting the video's importance as a signal to the global community.

If verified, the presence of North Korean troops would enhance evidence of stronger ties between Russia and North Korea. Last year, leaders Putin and Kim Jong Un further solidified military cooperation with a strategic partnership treaty, underscoring North Korea's expanded involvement. Already, North Korean weaponry has seen use in the Ukraine conflict.