China denies knowledge of North Korean troops in Russia
The Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs reported that Beijing is not aware of any North Korean soldiers stationed in Russia. Meanwhile, both South Korea and the United States have confirmed that Pyongyang has sent 3,000 of its military personnel with the intention of their potential deployment in Ukraine.
During a press conference, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman Lin Jin addressed the issue of North Korea supporting Russian aggression. "China's position on the Ukraine crisis is consistent and clear," the spokesman said.
He added that China hopes all parties will focus on de-escalation and take steps towards a political resolution. However, the representative of Chinese diplomacy assured that the Ministry of Foreign Affairs has no information about the presence of emissaries from Kim Jong Un's government in Russia.
China unaware of North Korean soldiers in Russia
However, South Korean intelligence indicates that in October, about 3,000 soldiers from North Korea were already transported to Russia. This number could rise to 10,000 by the end of December.
Both NATO and the United States have confirmed that North Korean military personnel are participating in training in the Russian Far East. They warn that their involvement in the conflict in Ukraine alongside Russian forces could lead to an escalation of hostilities.