North Korea confirms soldiers sent to fight with Russia against Ukraine

Indosnews.com – April 29, 2025

North Korea Confirms Deployment of Troops to Support Russia in Ukraine Conflict

North Korea has officially acknowledged its military involvement in the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war, confirming the deployment of approximately 14,000 troops to assist Russian forces. This marks the first public admission by Pyongyang regarding its participation in the conflict.​

According to North Korean state media, the decision was made under a mutual defense treaty signed between North Korean leader Kim Jong Un and Russian President Vladimir Putin in June 2024. The treaty, hailed as the two countries' most significant defense agreement since the end of the Cold War, stipulates that both nations will provide immediate military assistance if either is attacked.

North Korean troops have reportedly been involved in combat operations in the Kursk region, a contested area in southwestern Russia near the Ukrainian border. Russian officials claim that the region has been secured, though Ukrainian authorities dispute this, asserting that fighting continues in defensive positions.

The deployment has drawn international condemnation. The U.S. State Department labeled the move a violation of U.N. Security Council resolutions, while South Korea denounced it as a criminal and unethical decision. Analysts suggest that the unprecedented confirmation serves a diplomatic purpose, potentially setting the stage for an upcoming Kim-Putin summit.

In response to the deployment, Russian President Vladimir Putin publicly thanked Kim Jong Un for sending troops to assist in Russia's war against Ukraine, particularly for their role in retaking control of the Kursk region. Putin praised the fallen North Korean soldiers as heroes and announced plans for a monument in their honor.

The involvement of North Korean forces in the conflict raises concerns about expanded military collaboration between Pyongyang and Moscow, signaling a deepening alliance between the two nations.

North Korea has officially acknowledged its military involvement

https://www.theguardian.com/world/2024/nov/05/north-korea-troops-russia-ukraine-war-kim-jong-un-putin