Ukraine’s Spy Chief Reports Active North Korean Forces in Kursk Oblast

Kyrylo Budanov reported nearly 8,000 North Korean soldiers are still active in Russia’s Kursk Oblast despite recent heavy losses of about 4,000 soldiers. Activity has decreased, but Budanov refutes claims of absence at the front. North Korea plans to send additional support forces, but these will not engage in ground combat.

Kyrylo Budanov, head of Ukraine’s Main Intelligence Directorate (HUR), stated that nearly 8,000 North Korean soldiers are currently engaged in combat in Russia’s Kursk Oblast. Although their presence has diminished recently due to significant casualties, Budanov refutes media claims suggesting these forces have been entirely inactive at the front for weeks, declaring such reports as inaccurate.

Budanov noted that North Korean forces have sustained around 4,000 casualties, both killed and wounded, largely due to their inexperience in actual combat situations. He attributed their heavy losses to their reliance on ineffective “human wave” tactics while advancing with minimal combat vehicles. Despite these adversities, their commitment to combat is driven by loyalty to North Korean leader Kim Jong-un.

While activities have slowed slightly in Kursk Oblast, Budanov remained firm in his earlier assertion that North Korea intends to dispatch further artillery and missile personnel to Russia. He clarified that although these additional forces would be sent, they are not expected to participate directly in ground combat operations, preserving their role primarily for support.

Reports indicate that Russian forces are struggling to overpower resilient Ukrainian defenses in Kursk Oblast, with Kyiv troops reportedly inflicting heavy casualties—nearly 30%—on North Korean troops. Furthermore, it has been reported that North Korean military units are also engaged in training new recruits in Russia following their staggering losses in the region.

The ongoing war in Ukraine has seen diverse international involvement, including significant actions from North Korea, whose troops have reportedly been deployed to assist Russian forces. Observations over the battlefield suggest a complex interplay between foreign forces and local dynamics. The mention of tactical deficiencies, greater reliance on tactics like human wave assaults, and limited modern equipment raises concerns about the operational effectiveness of these North Korean troops and their strategic implications on the battlefield.

In conclusion, despite substantial losses and recent lowered activity levels, North Korean soldiers remain significantly involved in military operations in Russia’s Kursk Oblast. The command structure, inexperienced combat tactics, and national loyalty appear to underpin their commitment to fighting, although future operational efficiency remains questionable. Further military support from North Korea to Russia may alter the dynamics but is unlikely to include direct ground troop engagements.

Original Source: euromaidanpress.com