Zelensky Reports North Korean Troops Deploying Again in Kursk Oblast
President Zelensky announced that North Korean soldiers have been redeployed to the Kursk Oblast amid continued Russian advances. Recent intelligence suggests that up to 8,000 North Korean troops are involved, with significant casualties reported. The situation reflects an ongoing alliance between Russia and North Korea as both seek to counteract Ukrainian military operations.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky reported on February 7 that North Korean soldiers have been “brought in again” to combat in the Kursk Oblast. This statement came during an evening address following updates regarding new Russian military advances in the region. Zelensky mentioned that Ukrainian counteractions had resulted in the elimination of numerous Russian and North Korean troops, though the specifics of these casualties remain unverified by credible sources.
Reports indicate that North Korean forces were removed from frontline duties over three weeks ago, as per a Special Operations Forces spokesperson. Commander-in-Chief Oleksandr Syrskyi briefed Zelensky that about 60,000 Russian troops are currently stationed in Kursk, but many are from regions that have not seen reinforcements.
As of early February, the intelligence from Ukraine suggests that around 8,000 North Korean soldiers are actively engaged in the ongoing conflict in Kursk. Up to 12,000 North Korean troops were reportedly deployed last fall to aid Russian operations against Ukraine’s advances initiated in August 2024. South Korean intelligence has estimated that at least 300 North Korean soldiers have died and another 2,700 have sustained injuries in this region.
The involvement of North Korean soldiers in the ongoing conflict in Ukraine is indicative of broader geopolitical dynamics. Russia has turned to North Korean forces for assistance amid a challenging military situation. The deployment of these troops raises questions about international alliances and the strategies utilized by Russia and North Korea in this protracted conflict. Recent updates reveal that the composition and effectiveness of these forces are under scrutiny as casualty figures emerge.
The current situation in the Kursk Oblast highlights ongoing military tensions, with North Korean troops being re-engaged by Russia amidst continuous conflict. President Zelensky’s remarks reflect significant military developments, though verification of specific losses remains elusive. The number of deployed North Korean forces is substantial, suggesting a serious collaboration between Russia and North Korea in combating Ukraine’s military efforts.
Original Source: kyivindependent.com
