Thousands of North Korean Troops Reportedly Deployed to Russia, US Claims

The US claims that North Korea has deployed around 3,000 troops to Russia, raising concerns that they may become involved in the conflict in Ukraine. US defence secretary Lloyd Austin described this deployment as a “next step” following North Korea’s previous arms support to Russia, suggesting potential consequences for aiding Moscow directly.

Details are currently being assessed by analysts, with Mr Austin explaining during a press briefing in Rome that there is evidence of this deployment. Additionally, White House national security spokesman John Kirby stated that these soldiers arrived in Vladivostok by ship in October and are now undergoing training in various Russian military sites in the east.

The possibility of these troops joining combat in Ukraine is deemed highly concerning, with Mr Kirby mentioning the potential for them moving to western Russia before engaging in any conflict. Mr Austin also emphasized the seriousness of North Korean troops supporting Russia in Ukraine, warning of broader impacts not just in Europe, but also in the Indo-Pacific region.

South Korea’s intelligence officials have projected that North Korea may send a total of 10,000 soldiers to Russia by December, following reports of 1,500 special forces being dispatched for training in Russian military facilities. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy also expressed concerns about the involvement of North Korean soldiers in the conflict.

Denials from Russia and North Korea regarding troop movements have been issued, despite increased cooperation between the two countries. Concerns also exist in South Korea about potential weaponry rewards from Russia to North Korea, leading to advancements in North Korea’s nuclear and missile programs.

The UK government, along with North Korea and Russia, have all denied these claims. However, increased cooperation between the nations has been observed over the past few years, culminating in a defense pact signed in June that obliges both countries to provide immediate military assistance in case of an attack on either party.

Amid these developments, South Korea is considering supplying weapons to Ukraine in response to the reports of North Korean troop deployments. This potential shift in policy aligns with South Korea’s previous stance of providing humanitarian and financial support to Ukraine without directly arming conflict participants.

NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte has expressed concern over the escalation of the situation and has requested South Korean experts to brief the military alliance. As tensions rise, Germany has summoned North Korea’s top diplomat in Berlin to address the troop deployment allegations.