Washington Claims North Korean Troops Engaged in Combat Against Ukrainian Forces in Russia’s Kursk
Reports suggest that North Korean troops are collaborating with Russian forces in the western Kursk region, a claim that has not been confirmed or denied by Moscow or Pyongyang.
According to the U.S. State Department, more than 10,000 North Korean soldiers have been deployed to eastern Russia, with a majority stationed in the Kursk region. These troops are said to be actively participating in combat operations against Ukrainian forces alongside Russian troops. The United States is closely monitoring the situation and consulting with allies and partners in the region.
In the wake of a cross-border offensive by Ukrainian forces in Kursk in early August, Russia has managed to recapture most of the lost territory. The defense ministry of Russia claims that Ukraine has suffered significant casualties and loss of military equipment during the conflict, but these claims could not be independently verified.
South Korea’s national intelligence agency has supported the U.S.’s assertion of North Korean troops’ presence and combat involvement in Kursk. Satellite images released by South Korea showed the movement of North Korean military personnel into eastern Russia, prompting concern from Russian President Vladimir Putin.
The Pentagon hinted at the presence of 10,000 North Korean troops in Kursk but did not confirm their active engagement in combat. Both Moscow and Pyongyang have refrained from confirming or denying the allegations. North Korean state media reported the ratification of a mutual defense treaty signed by Putin and Kim Jong Un, which provides for military assistance in case of an armed attack on either party.
The treaty was described as a strategic partnership aimed at deepening relations between the two countries. Kim emphasized the peaceful nature of the treaty and expressed support for Moscow’s foreign policy, including its activities in eastern Ukraine.
Reuters contributed to this report.
