Clashes have erupted between Ukrainian forces and North Korean troops in the Kursk border region, with reports suggesting up to 15,000 North Korean soldiers may be stationed in Russia. Ukrainian officials, including Defense Minister Rustem Umierov, have noted that North Korean soldiers are disguising themselves, complicating identification efforts. In response, President Zelensky called for international action against this new phase of instability. Additionally, North Korea and Russia have ratified a military assistance pact, increasing concerns about their collaboration in the conflict.
Clashes Erupt Between Ukrainian and North Korean Forces
According to reports from Ukraine, the border region of Kursk has witnessed unprecedented clashes between Ukrainian forces and troops from North Korea. It is estimated that as many as 15,000 North Korean soldiers may be stationed in Russia, raising alarms about their potential involvement in the ongoing conflict.
Authorities from both Ukraine and allied nations, including the USA and South Korea, have expressed concerns about North Korean soldiers entering the fray in Russia’s aggressive military actions against Ukraine. The Ukrainian government has now confirmed the occurrence of these skirmishes.
Ukrainian Defense Minister Rustem Umierov discussed these developments in an interview with South Korean broadcaster KBS, highlighting that North Korean troops are reportedly disguising themselves as members of the Siberian Buryat ethnic group, complicating efforts to identify them.
International Response and Calls for Support
Following the confirmation of these clashes, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky urged a robust response from the global community. He stated, “With the first clashes involving North Korean soldiers, we are witnessing the dawn of a new phase of instability worldwide.” Zelensky emphasized the need for collective action to counter what he sees as Russia’s escalation in the conflict, which he believes could lead to defeat for both Russia and North Korea.
The United States remains the primary supporter of Ukraine in its fight against Russian aggression. Reports have emerged indicating that the involvement of North Korean soldiers is likely a strategic move to probe the vulnerabilities of Ukrainian forces. Furthermore, media sources indicate that several North Korean troops were reportedly killed during the recent clashes, although the exact timeline of these events remains unclear.
Strengthening Ties: Military Pact Between Russia and North Korea
In a significant development, North Korea and Russia’s upper house have ratified a military assistance agreement, further solidifying their defense collaboration. The Federation Council in Moscow unanimously approved this pact after President Vladimir Putin signed it during his historic visit to Pyongyang in June, marking his first trip to the isolated nation in 24 years.
This agreement aims to provide “immediate military assistance” if either country is attacked and includes commitments to cooperate against Western sanctions and align their positions at the United Nations. North Korean leader Kim Jong Un has expressed admiration for Putin, referring to him as his “best comrade,” while North Korean Foreign Minister Choe Son Hui pledged unwavering support for Russia “until victory” in Ukraine. This deepening alliance has raised significant concerns in the West, particularly regarding North Korea’s role in supplying ammunition to bolster the Russian offensive in Ukraine.