North Korean Troops in Ukraine: Confirmed Casualties and Military Support
Recent reports indicate that North Korean soldiers are actively participating in the Ukraine war on the side of Russia, with South Korea confirming possible casualties among these troops. According to South Korean intelligence, approximately 10,000 North Korean soldiers are stationed in the Kursk region, which borders Ukraine. The South Korean news agency Yonhap reported that there are concrete indications of casualties among these soldiers, although specific numbers have not been disclosed.
U.S. Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin noted that North Korean troops are expected to engage in combat soon, as they integrate into Russian military formations. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has acknowledged deadly clashes involving North Korean soldiers, although he did not provide casualty figures. The Ukrainian General Staff has stated that North Korean servicemen have participated in battles disguised as local civilians, equipped with relevant documentation and trained for operations in Europe.
Speculation regarding the extent of North Korean losses is rampant, with some sources claiming that up to 500 North Korean soldiers may have been killed in recent Ukrainian missile attacks, although these figures remain unverified.
Russian Defense Minister's Visit to North Korea Amid Ongoing Conflict
In a related development, Russian Defense Minister Andrei Belousov visited North Korea, where he was welcomed with military honors. This visit comes as both nations strengthen their military ties under a mutual defense treaty signed earlier this year. During his stay in Pyongyang, Belousov is expected to meet with North Korean military officials to discuss ongoing cooperation.
Simultaneously, the Russian military reported the downing of 47 Ukrainian drones, primarily in the Rostov region, which has been a focal point of conflict. This incident highlights the ongoing military engagements between Russia and Ukraine, as both sides continue to exchange strikes. The Russian military's claims of drone interceptions come amid accusations from Seoul and Washington that North Korea is providing military support to Russia in exchange for resources and economic aid.
