North Korean Troops Deployed to Ukraine: Implications and Consequences

In a significant development in the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken has confirmed that approximately 8,000 North Korean troops have been deployed to the Ukraine-Russia border and are expected to engage in combat on behalf of Russia. This move is seen as a sign of desperation and weakness from Russian President Vladimir Putin, according to Blinken.

The deployment of North Korean troops is part of a broader strategy by Russia to bolster its manpower in the face of heavy casualties. Russia has suffered nearly 700,000 casualties since the start of the war, with September being the deadliest month to date. The influx of North Korean soldiers could relieve Russian forces, allowing them to focus on offensives and counteroffensives.

Experts from the Center for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS) suggest that North Korea‘s militarized society and regular training exercises could make these fighters effective in supporting Russian operations. However, many North Korean soldiers lack intensive combat training, having been assigned to non-combat roles such as agriculture and construction. This raises concerns about their combat effectiveness and the potential for high casualties.

North Korea’s involvement also offers it an opportunity to gain combat experience, which has been absent since the Korean War’s armistice in 1953. Additionally, North Korea can test its weaponry in real combat situations and refine its military equipment. The country has previously supplied Russia with significant amounts of missiles and artillery shells, solidifying its alliance with Moscow.

The morale of North Korean forces could decline if they experience casualty rates similar to those of Russian soldiers. Issues of desertion and defection have already been reported, with at least 18 North Korean soldiers allegedly deserting near the Ukrainian border in mid-October. This could pose a significant embarrassment for Kim Jong Un‘s regime if verified.