Zelensky Reveals North Korean Troops Have Re-Joined Fighting in Kursk

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky reported that North Korean soldiers have re-entered combat in the Kursk region, contributing to significant occupier casualties. Reports suggest that around 8,000 North Korean troops continue to fight alongside Russian forces. Zelensky emphasized the importance of military operations in Kursk to prevent further escalations of conflict within Ukraine, while negotiations for peace remain complex.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky announced on Friday that North Korean troops have returned to fight in Russia’s Kursk region, emphasizing their significant role on the front line. He noted that during recent combat, many occupiers, including both Russian and North Korean servicemen, have been killed. Zelensky underscored the situation’s seriousness during his evening address, highlighting ongoing military operations in Kursk as vital for Ukraine’s defense strategy.

In previous reports, North Korean leader Kim Jong Un had sent an estimated 12,000 soldiers to Russia, most of whom were located in Kursk. While Ukrainian estimates indicate that about half of these troops have been killed or injured, these numbers remain unverified. Although previous information suggested a withdrawal of North Koreans from Kursk due to heavy losses, Lieutenant General Kyrylo Budanov claimed that approximately 8,000 North Korean soldiers are still engaged alongside Russian forces.

Zelensky did not specify the exact number of North Korean troops currently in action, but he noted that thousands have resumed combat activities in the Kursk area. He reported a comprehensive new offensive by the Ukrainian military has progressed 1.5 miles into the region, affirming that ongoing military efforts in Kursk are critical to preventing further escalation of tensions within Ukraine. He stated that the total of 60,000 Russian soldiers stationed in Kursk lacks reinforcements in other key areas like Donetsk.

During his address, Zelensky remarked, “New assaults took place in the areas of the Kursk operation—the Russian army with North Korean soldiers brought in again. A significant number of occupiers have been eliminated, we’re talking hundreds of Russian and North Korean servicemen.” This declaration reflects the ongoing intensity of the conflict as negotiations for peace remain uncertain amid international speculations regarding talks between Zelensky and Russian President Vladimir Putin.

The context of this information involves the ongoing conflict between Ukraine and Russia, which has seen intensified military activity since its onset in February 2022. Zelensky’s mention of North Korean troops indicates a potential alliance between Russia and North Korea, specifically in the context of military operations. Intelligence estimates regarding troop numbers and casualties provide insight into the scale of the conflict and its implications for regional stability. Additionally, previous updates regarding troop movements and engagements highlight the changing dynamics in this war-torn area.

Zelensky’s remarks emphasize the re-involvement of North Korean troops in the ongoing conflict within the Kursk region, a situation that illustrates the evolving alliance between Russia and North Korea. As military operations intensify, the involvement of foreign troops could complicate peace negotiations and impact Ukraine’s strategic objectives. With ongoing fighting and high casualty estimates, the situation remains precarious, and the search for lasting solutions continues amid fluctuating troop levels and operations.

Original Source: www.newsweek.com