The situation at the Russian-Ukrainian border has taken an unexpected turn. According to The Financial Times, about three thousand soldiers from North Korea have secretly arrived in the Kursk region of Russia, located 50 km from the Ukrainian border. As reported by El Pais, the total number of North Korean forces in the region is around five thousand. It is reported that the Kremlin has reached an agreement with Kim Jong Un for Pyongyang’s assistance in fighting on its own territory in order to free up Russian troops to participate in combat operations in Ukraine.
Ukrainian strikes and reconnaissance
Despite the lack of official confirmation from Russia, there are reasons to believe that the Ukrainian Armed Forces have already launched initial strikes on the new North Korean army positions in Kursk. Ukrainian sources suggest that North Korean soldiers could have been transported over 6,000 km by civilian transport, including reinforcements for Russian military units such as the 810th Marine Brigade. However, there is currently no visual evidence of North Koreans on the front line, and Ukrainian fighters have not personally seen them.
Strength and reinforcement of North Korean forces
According to Ukrainian and Western intelligence estimates, Russia plans to increase the number of North Korean military personnel to 10,000. According to the Ukrainian Defense Intelligence, the troops already sent include around 500 officers, including three generals. Forbes by David Axe notes that intercepted Russian radio communications indicate preparations for moving additional North Korean forces closer to the front line.
Comments and potential actions by the USA and NATO
The situation has raised concerns among global leaders:
- Pentagon Deputy Press Secretary Sabrina Singh stated that the USA does not plan to restrict Ukraine’s use of American weapons in case of direct North Korean involvement in the conflict.
- President of the United States Joe Biden stated that Ukraine will have support in case of aggression from North Korea.
- NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg also expressed concern, confirming the arrival of North Korean soldiers on Russian territory for potential participation in combat operations.
Ukraine’s Position: Support for Partners and Call for Increased Pressure on Russia
President Volodymyr Zelensky stated that the current week will be a time of active work with partners to support Ukrainian soldiers. He called for increased pressure on Russia due to its cooperation with Pyongyang, as North Korea’s involvement in the conflict could further escalate the situation on the front line. Zelensky noted that North Korea is preparing to deploy several thousand more troops in border regions with Ukraine, which could have unforeseen consequences for the ongoing conflict.
Situation in the Far East and Preparation for Deployment
Information sources report that in the Russian Far East, preparation is underway for the deployment of 10,000 soldiers from North Korea. This is likely related to the future rotation of Russian troops and reinforcement in border areas with Ukraine.
