North Korean troops poised to join combat in Russia-Ukraine war
About 8,000 of the 10,000 soldiers sent by North Korea are already in the Kursk region, and they are expected to join the fighting in the coming days, said U.S. Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin during a meeting in Washington. Kim Jong Un's troops are anticipated to support the Russians before winter arrives.
5:02 PM EDT, October 31, 2024
The US currently estimates that there are about 10,000 North Korean soldiers in Russia, and the latest information indicates that about 8,000 of them have been deployed in the Kursk region. "We've not yet seen these troops deploy into combat against Ukrainian forces, but we would expect that to happen in the coming days," commented Antony Blinken.
He added that Russia is training North Korean soldiers in artillery operations, drones, and basic infantry tactics, which suggests an intention to use them directly on the front line.
The U.S. Secretary of Defense also pointed out that if these units participate in combat operations or combat support against Ukraine, "they will become legitimate military targets."
During a press conference, Austin and Blinken announced the release of another aid package for Ukraine. However, they admitted that talks are still ongoing regarding possible actions in response to North Korea's involvement in the conflict.
Will South Korea help Ukraine?
South Korean Defense Minister Kim Yong-hyun, questioned about a possible change in Seoul's policy and whether offensive weapons would be provided to Ukraine, stated that he is not in a position to provide specifics. He added that a final decision will be made after confirming North Korean soldiers' involvement in the fighting.
Kim also reported that there is no evidence that the recently launched intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM) by Pyongyang contained any components or technologies originating from Russia.
The South Korean foreign minister, Cho Tae-yul, highlighted China's role in the current situation. "China is currently observing and waiting. If the situation deteriorates, then China, as a mediator or in another role, might intervene. Should China's interests be compromised, that's when China might start to play a certain role," he stated.
