For the first time, Russia has officially confirmed the involvement of North Korean troops fighting alongside Russian forces in the ongoing war against Ukraine. This acknowledgment came through Valery Gerasimov, the chief of the General Staff of the Russian Armed Forces, who reported to President Vladimir Putin about the “complete liberation” of territory in the Kursk border region.
According to Russian media outlets, Gerasimov praised the role of North Korean fighters, noting that they have been “accomplishing combat objectives shoulder to shoulder” with Russian soldiers. He described their performance as highly professional, demonstrating endurance, courage, and heroism in combat.
Maria Zakharova, a spokesperson for Russia’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, echoed Gerasimov’s comments, stating that North Korean soldiers had displayed “resilience and heroism” in the conflict. She added, “We will never forget our friends,” in reference to the partnership between the two nations.
While North Korea has not officially confirmed the deployment, reports from South Korea and the United States suggest that since October of last year, North Korea has sent approximately 11,000 soldiers to the frontlines in Ukraine to support Russia. It is believed that around 4,000 of these troops have been wounded, and another 3,000 may have been dispatched earlier this year.
The military alliance between North Korea and Russia stems from a strategic partnership signed in June 2023 during a summit between Putin and North Korean leader Kim Jong-un. The partnership agreement includes mutual military support in the event of an attack on either nation.
Gerasimov further emphasized that the North Korean troops’ involvement in the Kursk region was in line with the Treaty on the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership between the two countries, underscoring the growing military cooperation between Russia and North Korea in the ongoing conflict.
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