North Korean troops bolster Russian forces in Ukraine conflict
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said on Saturday in his daily address to citizens that Moscow has begun involving a "noticeable number" of North Korean soldiers in efforts to push Ukrainian forces out of Russia's Kursk Region.
15 December 2024 07:52
In his Saturday address to citizens, Zelensky revealed that Russia has begun involving North Korean soldiers in the military operations in Kursk Region. North Korean soldiers are being integrated into combined Russian units and are increasingly participating in operations in this area.
Zelensky emphasised that Moscow has drawn another country into the conflict. In doing so, the Kremlin is escalating military actions.
North Koreans on the Ukrainian front. Zelensky reveals their increasing numbers
- And if this is not escalation, then what is the escalation that so many have been talking about? - the Ukrainian president asked rhetorically. He added that Ukraine will continue its defence, collaborating with international partners.
Next week, talks with European leaders are planned about sanctions against Russia and support for Ukraine. Zelensky noted that sanctions, defensive support, and diplomacy for peace must intensify to achieve the main goal of ending the war.
Ukrainian forces entered Kursk Region in August 2024. This move was intended to alleviate the burden on troops fighting in Ukraine's eastern regions. They currently control several locations there.
North Korean soldiers, sent by dictator Kim Jong Un, appeared on the front line at the turn of October and November. They are supporting Russia's aggression against Ukraine based on agreements made between Kim Jong Un and Vladimir Putin.
