Russian Soldiers Wounded in Ukraine Receive Treatment in North Korea

Russian soldiers wounded in the Ukraine war are treated in North Korea, as stated by ambassador Alexander Matsegora. Relations between the two nations have strengthened, formalized in a strategic partnership in 2024, although it lacks specifics on medical treatment. North Korean facilities offer free care, and cultural exchanges are emerging, including summer vacations for children of fallen soldiers.

Russian soldiers who suffer injuries during the conflict in Ukraine are receiving medical treatment and rehabilitation services in North Korea, as confirmed by Alexander Matsegora, the Russian ambassador to North Korea. This announcement was made during an interview with Rossiyskaya Gazeta on February 9. The relationship between Russia and North Korea has strengthened significantly in recent years, especially in response to geopolitical challenges posed by Western nations.

In the fall of 2024, a strategic partnership agreement between Russia and North Korea was ratified, focusing on enhancing trade, scientific, technical, and military cooperation. Although this agreement outlines various areas of collaboration, it notably lacks specific details regarding the treatment of injured Russian soldiers. Matsegora emphasized that the treatment provided in North Korea occurs in top hospitals and sanatoriums without charge.

Ambassador Matsegora noted that hundreds of wounded Russian servicemen have already been sent to North Korea for care. He indicated that North Korean officials were offended by a suggestion to provide compensation for expenses related to this care, which prompted assurance from Matsegora that such offers would not be repeated. Furthermore, he mentioned that children of Russian military personnel killed in Ukraine are vacationing in North Korea, highlighting increased cultural exchanges between the two nations.

Additionally, Russia is said to supply North Korea with essential goods such as coal, food, and medicine, fostering further bilateral ties. The military cooperation between the two countries also intensified in 2024, culminating in a mutual defense pact signed by Russian President Vladimir Putin and North Korean leader Kim Jong-un in June. Following this arrangement, North Korea has become increasingly involved in the ongoing conflict, providing arms and deploying soldiers to support Russian forces.

Last fall, reports indicated that up to 12,000 North Korean troops were mobilized in Russia’s Kursk Oblast to assist in countering incursions from Ukraine, demonstrating the growing military collaboration amid heightened tensions in the region.

In summary, the ongoing treatment of injured Russian soldiers in North Korea signifies a deepening strategic partnership between the two nations, highlighting military collaboration against common geopolitical challenges. The free medical services provided in North Korean hospitals reflect a commitment to support Russian military efforts, while ancillary programs for families of soldiers reveal an expanding bilateral relationship. Overall, the alliance is characterized by increased military cooperation, trade, and cultural exchanges, notably amidst escalating conflict in Ukraine.

Original Source: kyivindependent.com