U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken announced on Thursday that approximately 8,000 North Korean soldiers stationed in Russia are expected to commence combat operations against Ukrainian forces in the Kursk region “in the coming days.”
North Korean Reinforcements in Kursk
According to Blinken, out of the 10,000 North Korean troops believed to be undergoing training in Russia, 80% are currently located in the Kursk area, which has been a focal point of Ukrainian military incursions since August. Recent reports indicate that Ukraine has managed to capture around 460 square miles of territory, leading to civilian evacuations and compelling Russia to defend its own land.
Training and Support from Russia
During a joint press conference with Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin and their South Korean counterparts, Blinken revealed that Russia has been training these North Korean soldiers in artillery and basic infantry tactics such as trench clearing. This training is a clear indication that Moscow “fully intend[s] to use these forces in frontline operations.”
Austin added that Russian military provisions, including uniforms and equipment, further demonstrate that Russia plans to deploy these foreign troops actively in the ongoing conflict with Ukraine.
A Sign of Weakness for Putin
Blinken remarked, “[Russian President Vladimir] Putin has been throwing more and more Russians into a meat grinder of his own making in Ukraine. Now he’s turning to North Korean troops, and that is a clear sign of weakness.” He highlighted that Russian troops are currently facing unprecedented casualty rates, with estimates of about 1,200 casualties per day in eastern Ukraine—the highest figures since the war began over two and a half years ago.
A Historical Deployment
This deployment marks a significant moment in history, as it is the first instance in 100 years that Russia has invited foreign troops onto its soil, as confirmed by Blinken.
U.S. Support for Ukraine Continues
When asked about the ability of Ukrainian forces to maintain control over the territory in Kursk, Austin confidently replied, “Yes.” He elaborated, stating that the casualty figures for Russia are significant compared to the troop numbers they are deploying.
Blinken announced that further security assistance for Ukraine will be revealed in “the coming days.”
North Korea’s ICBM Launch
The joint address followed North Korea’s launch of its longest intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM) earlier on Thursday, which traveled approximately 620 miles over 86 minutes in the direction of the East Sea, according to Japanese authorities.
While Austin did not believe that Russia was involved in this missile test, he acknowledged that North Korea’s partnership with Russia could “embolden” the regime. He noted, “[North Korea] stands a chance of gaining in this exchange,” emphasizing the need for vigilance regarding their actions moving forward.
This developing situation highlights the intricate dynamics of international relations and military engagements as the conflict in Ukraine continues to unfold.
(Includes inputs from online sources.)
