Seoul, February 11 (IANS) – South Korea’s Ministry of Defense has reported that North Korea has provided Russia with significant military support, including approximately 200 pieces of long-range artillery, missiles, and a substantial supply of ammunition. Furthermore, intelligence estimates suggest that North Korea has deployed around 11,000 troops to Russia in support of its ongoing war against Ukraine, with 300 troops reportedly killed and approximately 2,700 wounded.
During a parliamentary defense committee briefing, South Korean officials indicated that North Korea is expected to continue its military assistance to Russia, potentially sending additional troops, weaponry, and ammunition in the future. The briefing also highlighted North Korea’s strategic objective to enhance its weapons development program, particularly in the final year of its current five-year military modernization plan. This plan includes advancements in nuclear-powered submarines, spy satellites, and solid-fuel intercontinental ballistic missiles (ICBMs).
Additionally, South Korean authorities raised concerns that Pyongyang may receive critical Russian technological assistance in exchange for its military support. In particular, North Korea could gain access to technologies related to nuclear-powered submarines and atmospheric re-entry capabilities for ICBMs, which would significantly bolster its strategic military assets.
On the diplomatic front, the ministry assessed that North Korea is maneuvering to create favorable conditions for potential negotiations with the United States. Despite US President Donald Trump’s expressed intent to re-engage with North Korean leader Kim Jong-un, Pyongyang has yet to respond formally. Instead, it has continued provocative actions, including missile tests and high-profile visits by Kim Jong-un to nuclear-material production facilities.
Meanwhile, Russia remains firm on its stance regarding the ongoing war in Ukraine. Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Sergei Ryabkov has stated that all of President Vladimir Putin’s conditions must be met in full before any resolution to the conflict can be reached. Ryabkov further emphasized that a peace deal brokered by the United States would not be viable if it undermines Putin’s strategic objectives.
The growing military collaboration between North Korea and Russia raises serious concerns for global security, particularly in light of ongoing tensions in Eastern Europe and the Korean Peninsula. Analysts warn that North Korea’s continued military aid to Russia, coupled with potential technological exchanges, could further destabilize international security dynamics and exacerbate geopolitical tensions between major global powers.
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