North Korea Suspected of Sending Troops to Fight in Ukraine

North Korea is reportedly deploying its soldiers to fight alongside Russian troops in Ukraine, according to South Korea‘s defense minister, Kim Yong-hyun. On Tuesday, Kim addressed the country’s parliament, elaborating on the potential involvement of North Korean forces in the conflict. “As Russia and North Korea have signed a mutual treaty akin to a military alliance, the possibility of such a deployment is highly likely,” Kim stated, suggesting that more North Korean soldiers might join the fray.

The evolving relationship between Russia and North Korea has raised concerns, with the two nations moving toward an arrangement perceived to be almost as close as a military alliance. “The relations between Russia and North Korea are evolving to be almost as close as a military alliance,” Kim noted, speculating about the potential increase in North Korean troop deployments.

This development follows the signing of a defense pact between Moscow and Pyongyang in June, during President Vladimir Putin‘s visit to North Korea, marking the first such visit in 25 years. The agreement indicates mutual military support if either nation is attacked, showcasing a stronger bond between the two since the Cold War era.

The strengthening of ties between Russia and North Korea has prompted concerns in Western countries. There is speculation that North Korea is supplying munitions to Moscow in exchange for economic aid and technology. Such exchanges could potentially support Russia’s ongoing military operations in Ukraine.

South Korea’s defense minister also cited reports from Ukrainian media, claiming that North Korean soldiers have been killed by Ukrainian forces during combat operations. “We believe there have been injuries and fatalities among North Korean troops in Ukraine,” Kim confirmed.

Both Russia and Ukraine have previously incorporated foreign fighters into their military ranks due to shortages of troops, which adds a layer of complexity to the ongoing conflict and the involvement of additional international participants.