North Korean troops in Ukraine could signal desperation for Russia
Washington is investigating reports of North Korean soldiers' involvement in the war in Ukraine. This follows the recent revelation by Volodymyr Zelensky, who mentioned findings by Ukrainian intelligence. According to John Kirby, if confirmed, it would represent a "new level of desperation by Putin."
The spokesperson for the U.S. National Security Council, John Kirby, announced on Tuesday that confirmation of the presence of North Korean soldiers in Ukraine could indicate a "new level of desperation by Putin." Kirby referred to media reports suggesting the possible involvement of North Korean troops in the fighting against Ukrainian forces.
This, if true, would represent a significant deepening of that relationship [between North Korea and Russia]. It would also, if true, indicate what I think can only be classified as a new level of desperation by Putin as he continues to try to make progress in Ukraine, he said.
On Monday, Ukraine's President, Volodymyr Zelensky, accused North Korea of effectively engaging in the war. There are also media reports about the creation of a "special Buryat battalion" within the Russian army, allegedly consisting of North Korean citizens. According to the Ukrainian Pravda portal, this unit might be deployed to fight in the Kursk region, where Ukrainian troops have been active since 6 August.
The United States on the North Korea-Russia alliance
Spokesperson John Kirby noted that the United States is still examining these reports. If they turn out to be true, it could further deteriorate international relations and strengthen the military alliance between North Korea and Russia.
Similar information has surfaced before. Its confirmation remains of interest to international intelligence services. This completely changes the perception of Russia's current alliances.
