South Korea’s National Intelligence Service (NIS) has dropped a bombshell, revealing that approximately 10,900 North Korean soldiers are now fighting alongside Russian forces in the ongoing Ukraine conflict. These troops have reportedly been integrated into Russia’s airborne units and marine forces, with some already engaged in direct combat against Ukrainian troops. The startling disclosure was made public by Park Sun-won, a member of South Korea’s parliament intelligence committee, citing NIS findings.
The NIS report doesn’t end with troop movements. The agency claims that North Korea has supplied Russia with advanced military hardware, including self-propelled howitzers and multiple rocket launchers. This arms transfer significantly bolsters Russia’s war effort, escalating concerns among international observers regarding the growing geopolitical implications of this alliance.
North Korean Military Hardware Boosts Russia’s War Effort
In addition to troop deployments, the NIS assessment revealed specific details about the weaponry being provided. South Korean lawmaker Lee Seong Kweun, who attended a closed-door parliamentary briefing, confirmed that North Korea has already exported 170mm self-propelled guns and 240mm multiple rocket launch systems. The NIS pointed out that these sophisticated weapons are not easily operated by the typical Russian military forces, suggesting that North Korea is likely sending personnel to train Russian soldiers in their use and maintenance. This deepening military collaboration between North Korea and Russia marks a concerning development in the ongoing conflict.
High-Level Diplomatic Talks Indicate Growing Strategic Alliance
The situation is further complicated by a reported high-level diplomatic exchange. Park Sun-won, referencing the NIS, noted that North Korean Foreign Minister Choe Son Hui recently met with Russian President Vladimir Putin in Moscow. The atypical nature of this diplomatic visit suggests that discussions went beyond usual pleasantries and may have involved more substantive matters. The NIS speculates that the talks could also have included the possibility of a visit by North Korean Supreme Leader Kim Jong Un to Russia, signaling a potential strengthening of the strategic partnership between the two countries.
A Growing Military and Logistical Partnership with Global Implications
This disclosure by the South Korean intelligence agency adds significant complexity to the Ukraine conflict, as North Korea emerges as a key military and logistical supporter of Russia. The international community is closely monitoring the situation, especially considering the implications of a potential Kim Jong Un visit to Moscow and the continued supply of military aid from North Korea to Russia. This evolving alliance presents a considerable challenge to global security and stability, with far-reaching consequences for the geopolitical landscape.
