Zelensky Accuses North Korea of Sending Soldiers to Russia Amid Ongoing Conflict in Ukraine
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has raised serious allegations against North Korea, claiming that the country is supplying soldiers to the Russian military to bolster their efforts in the ongoing war in Ukraine. In his recent evening video address, Zelensky stated, "We see that the alliance between Russia and regimes like North Korea is growing stronger. It’s not just about transferring weapons; it’s also about transferring people from North Korea to the armed forces of the occupiers."
These accusations come at a time when Ukraine is facing a significant Russian offensive, particularly around the eastern city of Krakow, a critical conflict zone. Zelensky emphasized the need for Ukraine to enhance its military capabilities and support from international partners, highlighting the necessity for increased long-range capabilities and a consistent supply of military equipment to the Ukrainian forces.
Adding weight to Zelensky’s claims, South Korean Defense Minister Kim Young-hyun indicated that there is a "high possibility" of North Korean forces being deployed to assist Russia in its military operations against Ukraine. He mentioned that reports of North Korean soldiers being killed in a Ukrainian raid on Russian-controlled territory could likely be true.
In stark contrast to these allegations, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov dismissed the accusations, labeling them as "another piece of fake news." This denial comes as tensions continue to escalate in the region, with both sides ramping up military operations.
On the battlefield, the Ukrainian Air Force reported successfully repelling a significant attack by Russian forces near Krakow, where a group of approximately 25 infantry fighting vehicles and five tanks was intercepted. Ukrainian artillery and suicide drones were instrumental in destroying several Russian vehicles, with reports indicating that seven infantry fighting vehicles and two tanks were eliminated during the confrontation. The General Staff in Kyiv noted that around 80 Russian attacks were recorded on the eastern front that day, with key hotspots identified in Pokrovsk and Krakow.
