North Korean military. Photo: open source.
A new player may appear on the frontline of Russia’s war against Ukraine – military units from North Korea. Although they will not be sent directly to Ukraine, it is planned to deploy them in the Kursk region, where they will gain combat experience. This decision provides Russia with additional arguments to legalise their participation in the war on the side of the Russian Federation. This was stated by Ivan Tymochko, chairman of the Council of Reservists of the Armed Forces of Ukraine, during a national telethon, one.ua reported.
Previous participation of the DPRK in the war
The North Korean military has already participated in the war on the side of Russia, albeit in limited numbers. These were mostly highly qualified specialists who helped adapt North Korean ammunition for use by Russian artillery. According to Ivan Tymochko, they included missile system operators and artillerymen who trained and adjusted shells.
A new wave of North Korean military
A much larger contingent of up to 12,000 North Korean troops is expected to arrive. This number has the potential to significantly strengthen Russia’s positions on certain fronts. However, their participation in Ukraine is not yet planned. They will first join Russian forces in the Kursk region, where they will be able to gain combat experience.
Strategic benefits for Russia
The deployment of North Korean troops in the Kursk region could bring Russia several strategic advantages. First, it would allow Russian units to be redeployed from this region to other parts of the frontline in Ukraine. Secondly, Moscow can legitimise the presence of the DPRK military by positioning them as allies “defending” Russian territory.
However, military experts suggest that these Korean troops could be deployed to Ukraine after they gain sufficient combat experience in the Kursk region.
Possible integration into the Russian army
Ivan Tymochko also noted that military personnel from the DPRK are trained as part of Buryat units. Russia may try to pass them off as its citizens of Buryat nationality, even handing out Russian passports. However, according to him, it will not be difficult to identify Koreans, as they do not speak Russian as well as Buryats.
Reaction of the international community
This involvement of North Korea in the conflict does not go unnoticed in the international arena. As reported by TimeUkraineIsrael, US Congressman Mike Turner has already expressed concern about this and called on US President Joe Biden to respond to this development.
