North Korea Sends Soldiers to Assist Russia in Ukraine Conflict
- Ukraine's military intelligence claims North Korea is sending soldiers to assist Russia in the war.
- North Korean military personnel are reportedly being trained on Russian territory, with evidence of ongoing military collaboration.
- This involvement signifies a shift in the conflict's dynamics, prompting Ukraine to call for changes in allied support strategies.
In October 2024, Ukraine's military intelligence reported that North Korea is not only supplying weapons to Russia but may also be sending soldiers to assist in the ongoing conflict. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy highlighted this shift, indicating that North Korean military personnel are being trained on Russian soil. The White House expressed concern over these developments, suggesting they reflect Russia's increasing desperation amid significant battlefield losses. Additionally, North Korea has been supplying artillery shells and manufacturing missiles for Russia, which are being used against Ukraine. Investigations have confirmed the presence of North Korean-made missiles in Ukraine, indicating a sustained military collaboration between the two nations. This involvement of North Korean troops marks a significant change in the dynamics of the war, as it introduces new military resources to the conflict. Zelenskyy also mentioned that North Korea is sending factory workers to Russia to fill gaps left by conscripted soldiers, further emphasizing the depth of this alliance. As the situation evolves, Ukraine's leadership is urging its allies to reconsider their strategies to support Ukraine's defense efforts, including a potential NATO membership before the war concludes.