North Korea to Deploy More Troops to Support Russia in Ukraine War
Reports indicate that North Korea is preparing to send additional troops to assist Russia in its ongoing conflict in Ukraine, possibly as early as July. This revelation comes from South Korean intelligence and highlights the growing military cooperation between Pyongyang and Moscow amid the prolonged war.
Significant Military Support Already Underway
North Korea has emerged as one of Russia's key allies throughout the more than three-year offensive in Ukraine. It has reportedly deployed thousands of troops alongside container loads of weapons to bolster Moscow’s efforts, particularly in the strategically important Kursk region.
According to a South Korean legislator, following an initial dispatch of 11,000 North Korean personnel in October last year, Moscow has requested additional reinforcements. Russia officially announced plans for a second deployment of 4,000 troops, complemented by another 6,000 construction soldiers designated to aid in rebuilding infrastructure damaged in Kursk.
Preparations Already Underway
Intelligence suggests that the new troop movement could commence by July or August. Patterns from previous deployments support this timeline—such as the roughly one-month lead time between Sergei Shoigu’s visit to Pyongyang and the troop dispatches.
Notably, Shoigu, Russia’s Security Council head, recently traveled to North Korea where he discussed sending military construction units and sappers for restoration projects in the Kursk region. Concurrently, Pyongyang appears to have started selecting personnel for the imminent deployment.
Deepening Military Ties Between Moscow and Pyongyang
The alliance between the two nations has strengthened considerably over the past year. After signing a military cooperation agreement that includes a mutual defense clause during Russian President Vladimir Putin’s visit to North Korea, joint efforts have intensified.
- North Korea reportedly provided several million artillery shells, alongside missiles and long-range rocket systems, delivered via naval vessels and military aircraft.
- Estimates from South Korean intelligence suggest that around 600 North Korean soldiers have died on the battlefield in Ukraine, with thousands more wounded.
- In April, North Korea officially acknowledged its troop presence in Ukraine and confirmed casualties suffered.
Future Cooperation and Challenges Ahead
While North Korean state media confirmed that leader Kim Jong Un has approved continued cooperation with Russia, detailed plans remain undisclosed. Given the considerable losses and ongoing wartime demands, Pyongyang’s support will be pivotal for Moscow’s operations in contested regions like Kursk.
This evolving military partnership underscores the complex geopolitical dynamics shaping the Ukraine conflict, as nations beyond NATO members play increasingly visible roles.
