North Korea’s special forces in Russia are reportedly prepared to join Russian President Vladimir Putin’s war in Ukraine, according to South Korea’s spy agency. Reports indicate that North Korea could dispatch a total of 12,000 troops organized into four brigades to Russia, marking a significant development in the conflict.
The National Intelligence Service (NIS) of South Korea issued a statement revealing that Russian navy ships had transported 1,500 North Korean special operation forces to the Russian port city of Vladivostok earlier in the month. These troops are currently stationed at military bases in Vladivostok and other Russian locations, undergoing adaptation training before likely deployment to battlegrounds.
The NIS shared satellite and other photos on its website, depicting Russian navy ship movements near a North Korean port and suspected North Korean troop gatherings in Ussuriysk and Khabarovsk. Additionally, the agency mentioned that more North Korean troops are expected to be sent to Russia in the near future.
Furthermore, the NIS disclosed that it had collaborated with Ukrainian intelligence services, utilizing facial recognition artificial intelligence technology to identify North Korean officers in eastern Ukraine’s Donetsk region supporting Russian forces in firing North Korean missiles. The agency noted that North Korea had shipped significant quantities of weaponry to Russia since August last year, including artillery rounds, ballistic missiles, and anti-tank rockets.
The South Korean presidential office expressed grave concerns over North Korea’s troop dispatch to Russia, highlighting the potential security threats posed not only to South Korea but also to the international community. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky previously mentioned that North Korea had sent 10,000 troops to Ukraine, raising fears of escalating tensions.
Amid denials from Russia, concerns persist regarding the possible involvement of North Korean soldiers in the conflict. Western nations, including the US and UK, are closely monitoring the situation. South Korea, along with its allies, is closely monitoring North Korea’s activities and stands ready to respond with all available means.
It is noteworthy that North Korean soldiers deployed to Russia have been supplied with Russian military uniforms, weapons, and falsified identification. Following their training, they are expected to be deployed to combat zones. The relationship between Russia and North Korea was further solidified by a comprehensive strategic partnership treaty signed by President Putin and Kim Jong-un, ensuring mutual military assistance in times of need.
As the situation continues to evolve, global attention remains focused on the potential implications of North Korea’s involvement in the conflict in Ukraine. The deployment of North Korean troops to support Russian forces signifies a concerning development that could have far-reaching consequences. Stay tuned for updates as the situation unfolds.
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