North Korean Troops to Join Russian Forces in Ukraine; US Authorizes Long-Range Missiles

In a significant escalation of the conflict in Ukraine, US Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin has confirmed that North Korean troops are set to enter combat against Ukrainian forces in the coming days. This development follows the Kremlin’s decision to allow North Korean soldiers to fight in the Russian-held part of Kursk. Estimates suggest that up to 10,000 North Korean soldiers have traveled to the region and will be involved in overseeing combat operations.

The move by North Korea to support Russia comes as the US has made a major policy shift by authorizing Ukraine to use American-made ATACMS missiles with a range of almost 200 miles. This decision, announced by President Biden, allows Ukrainian forces to strike deeper into Russian territory than previously permitted. The authorization was granted after months of lobbying by Ukraine and in response to Russia’s recent devastating missile attacks on Ukrainian energy infrastructure and residential areas.

Russian officials have vehemently opposed the US decision, warning that it could lead to a third world war. Lawmakers aligned with President Vladimir Putin described the move as a “very big step toward the beginning” of such a global conflict. Putin had previously warned that US permission for Ukraine to fire long-range missiles at Russia would mean that NATO countries and the US are parties to the war.

The situation on the ground remains dire, with recent Russian missile attacks targeting energy infrastructure and residential areas, resulting in significant casualties. In the northern city of Sumy, a ballistic missile strike killed 11 people, including two children, and wounded over 80 others. Similar attacks hit apartment buildings in Odesa, killing at least eight people, including a child.

The international community is closely watching the developments, with the UN Security Council holding a dedicated meeting to discuss the involvement of North Korean troops in the conflict. There are concerns that Kim Jong-un may be expecting significant benefits from Putin in exchange for North Korea’s military support, which could have broader global implications, particularly regarding nuclear proliferation.

As the conflict intensifies, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has welcomed the US policy change, emphasizing the need for stronger retaliation against Russian forces. The decision is seen as a strategic move to give Ukraine more leverage in future negotiations, especially with the incoming US administration under President-elect Donald Trump, who is perceived as less supportive of Ukraine’s cause.