How North Korea's growing military alliance with Russia impacts Ukraine
The President of Ukraine, Volodymyr Zelensky, stated that despite the losses, North Korean soldiers continue to fight in the Kursk region and may soon be reinforced. At the same time, he warned allies that Russia is still deepening its military ties with North Korea, which could have implications beyond Ukraine.
"They continue their contacts with North Korea for military supplies, weapons, and missiles. We see this reflected in artillery and missile attacks. This is direct involvement, a clear case of a second country being drawn into the war—not a theory, but a fact," said Volodymyr Zelensky during a speech at the Munich Security Conference.
More North Korean soldiers are heading to Russia
The Ukrainian president confirmed earlier reports that approximately 12,000 North Korean soldiers have been deployed in the Kursk region. Around 4,000 of them are believed to have been eliminated from the battlefield. However, it is anticipated that reinforcements of about 2,000 to 3,000 additional North Koreans may soon arrive in the Kursk region.
Stanislav Krasnov, a platoon commander of the 95th Separate Airborne Assault Brigade of the Ukrainian armed forces, explained in an interview with the Unian agency that the North Koreans have adapted their tactics and are adjusting to the realities of modern warfare, where drones are utilised extensively. Furthermore, they have frequently surprised with equipment superior to that available to Russian soldiers. Some captured North Koreans were found with two firearms - an AK-12 automatic rifle and a Vepr-12 self-loading shotgun - as well as a significant quantity of grenades, Chinese radios, and maps.
Pyongyang supports Moscow like no one else, but it's not for free
In terms of equipment resources, North Korea primarily supplies Russia with vast quantities of 122 mm and 152 mm artillery shells, which are utilised in the most common Russian artillery systems. Additionally, Putin's forces in Ukraine can rely on KN-23 ballistic missiles, M1978 Koksan artillery guns, and multiple rocket launcher systems.
However, this support is not provided freely. North Korea expects Russian technological assistance in return, particularly with military and satellite programmes. Pyongyang aims to significantly modernise its air force, including acquiring MiG-29 and Su-27 fighters from Russia or developing its first AWACS-type aircraft based on the Il-76.
The Ukrainian president emphasised that world leaders should be more attentive to the deepening ties between Russia and North Korea, as in the long term, this could have significant consequences beyond Ukraine.
The Reuters agency warns that North Korea views Ukraine as a testing ground, draws conclusions, and has the capability to enhance its weaponry. This is evident in the increasing accuracy of KN-23 ballistic missiles. Although South Korean authorities appear most concerned about this, they consistently refuse to provide military support to Ukraine.
