North Korean Troops Allegedly Deploying to Support Russian Forces in Ukraine

A Ukrainian military intelligence source has informed the BBC that Russia’s military is reportedly establishing a unit comprised of approximately 3,000 North Korean soldiers. This assertion marks the latest development in what appears to be an increasingly close military relationship between North Korea and Russia.

Despite these reports, the BBC has not yet observed any signs of such a unit forming in Russia’s Far East. Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov refuted claims of North Korean involvement, stating, “This is not only British intelligence, it is also American intelligence. They report it all the time, they don’t provide any evidence.” This denial followed similar reports from other Western intelligence sources.

The ties between Moscow and Pyongyang have reportedly strengthened in recent months. North Korean leader Kim Jong Un recently sent a congratulatory message to Russian President Vladimir Putin, referring to him as his “closest comrade.” Concurrently, South Korea’s defense minister has suggested a high likelihood of North Korean deployment in Ukraine.

On the ground, military sources in Russia’s Far East indicate that a number of North Koreans have arrived at a military base near Ussuriysk, north of Vladivostok. However, the numbers are said to be far less than the speculated 3,000. Analysts question the feasibility of integrating large numbers of North Korean soldiers into Russian units, citing language barriers and lack of combat experience.

Matthew Miller, a spokesperson for the US State Department, expressed concern over this potential development, describing it as “a significant increase in their relationship” and “a new level of desperation by Russia” amid ongoing battlefield losses.

Evidence suggesting North Korea has been supplying Russia with ammunition has surfaced recently. A missile found in Ukraine’s Poltava region, along with reports circulating on Russian military community platforms, indicate arms exchanges dating back to late 2023.

Valeriy Ryabykh, editor at Defence Express, commented that North Korean troops could potentially serve to guard the Russian-Ukrainian border, thereby freeing Russian troops for frontline duties. However, he doubts they will be immediately deployed to direct combat.

North Korea’s military capacity is notable, though its soldiers lack recent combat experience. Experts like Andrei Lankov, director of the Korea Risk Group, highlight mutual benefits for both countries. “Pyongyang would be paid well and maybe get access to Russian military technology,” he explained, while Russia could supplement its ranks without political ramifications from potential casualties.

As Russia faces significant troop shortages, this development, if confirmed, could represent a strategic pivot in its forces’ composition. President Volodymyr Zelensky of Ukraine has expressed concerns about the potential ramifications of such an alliance. Meanwhile, the United States remains vigilant about the emerging dynamics and their implications for the ongoing conflict.