North Korea has sent 3,500 additional soldiers to Russia for training, potentially leading to a third wave of troop deployments to support Russia in Ukraine. Approximately 1,500 soldiers from a previous deployment are already on the front lines, with reports of significant casualties among North Korean soldiers. The relationship between North Korea and Russia is increasingly impactful amid ongoing military operations against Ukraine.
On March 5, South Korean lawmaker Yu Yong-weon reported that North Korea has dispatched an additional 3,500 soldiers to Russia’s Far East for training at five military sites. This development raises the prospect of a third wave of troop deployments to support Russia in its ongoing conflict in Ukraine. Yu’s insights were informed by intelligence shared by Lieutenant General Kyrylo Budanov, head of Ukraine’s defense intelligence, during Yu’s visit to Kyiv from February 23 to 26.
Yu indicated that approximately 1,500 North Korean troops from an earlier deployment are already engaged on the front lines, specifically aiding Russia’s military efforts. He elaborated that these soldiers have completed adaptation training and are now positioned near the Kursk region of Russia. Earlier estimations noted that North Korea had sent about 11,000 troops in October of the previous year, with further reinforcements arriving from January to February this year.
According to Yu, Ukrainian defense officials have reported significant casualties among North Korean soldiers, estimating around 400 fatalities and approximately 3,600 injuries, with several recovering and returning to combat. Furthermore, it was assessed that a joint unit consisting of 63,000 Russian and North Korean troops is currently operating in the Kursk region, with some units composed entirely of North Koreans.
Reports indicate that North Korean soldiers have been observed engaging in informal interactions with their Russian counterparts, including attempts to borrow mobile phones. Analysis of their technology revealed a significant amount of propaganda and ideological training materials. Ukrainian Special Operations Forces have remarked on the combat proficiency of the North Korean troops, suggesting that five North Korean soldiers could match the effectiveness of ten Russian soldiers due to their endurance and fearlessness.
In discussions about military engagement, Yu stated that the Ukrainian government has indicated ongoing troop reinforcements from North Korea. He highlighted a discrepancy in reported casualties, noting that while 4,000 North Korean casualties had been estimated, only two soldiers had been captured as prisoners of war, suggesting potential instances of self-destruction among the wounded. Notably, an audio recording was shared, featuring insights from a wounded North Korean soldier captured during combat in January, providing an unusual perspective on the North’s military training regime.
The recent deployment of North Korean soldiers to Russia highlights the deepening military ties between the two nations amid the Ukraine conflict. With thousands of troops now undergoing training and others reportedly engaging in frontline combat, the strategic implications of this partnership remain significant. The high casualty rates among North Korean soldiers further emphasize the harsh realities of the conflict and the challenges they face in combat situations.
Original Source: news.az
