Putin Proposes North Korean Involvement in Ukraine Peace Talks and Military Cooperation
Putin suggests North Korea could aid in Ukraine peace talks, mentioning the dispatch of additional troops from the North to Russia. A tentative ceasefire brokered by the U.S. hinges on the lifting of sanctions, which European leaders are reluctant to ease. North Korea’s military involvement is growing, with advanced weaponry and troop deployments noted. Preparations for Kim Jong Un’s visit signal strengthened ties between Russia and North Korea.
Russian President Vladimir Putin proposed that North Korea, alongside other allies, could assist in a peace process for Ukraine which may include a “temporary administration” for the country. This statement emerged during his visit to Murmansk, as reports indicated North Korea had sent an additional 3,000 soldiers to Russia to support its military efforts in Ukraine. Putin suggested that cooperation is possible not only with the United States but also with BRICS nations and North Korea.
The U.S. recently facilitated a tentative ceasefire agreement aimed at easing hostilities in the Black Sea, contingent upon Russia’s compliance with the lifting of Western sanctions that impact its agricultural exports. European leaders remain doubtful about relaxing sanctions, emphasizing that the current climate is not suitable for such measures. China has adopted a nuanced position on the war, supporting Ukraine’s sovereignty while recognizing Russia’s security concerns linked to NATO’s expansion.
Reports suggest North Korea has sent around 12,000 troops and provided ballistic missiles to aid Russia, reflecting its notable military engagement since the 1950s. The South Korean Joint Chiefs of Staff (JCS) confirmed that approximately 11,000 North Korean soldiers have been deployed, with 4,000 reported casualties and new troop arrivals totaling over 3,000 in January and February. North Korea continues to supply military equipment and technology, working on upgrades for a potential military spy satellite launch.
The JCS also indicated that North Korea has reduced winter military training sessions due to troop mobilization efforts for construction projects and energy shortages. Additionally, North Korea unveiled advanced military technology, such as an airborne radar and AI-powered suicide drones, hinting at technical collaboration with Russia in exchange for troop support.
Separately, Russian officials are preparing for a visit from North Korean leader Kim Jong Un, which would mark his third trip to Russia since 2019. This visit underscores the growing military and strategic ties between Moscow and Pyongyang, solidified by a mutual defense treaty signed during last year’s meeting between Putin and Kim.
Putin’s call for North Korean and other allies’ involvement in peace talks for Ukraine highlights the shifting dynamics of international relationships regarding the conflict. North Korea’s significant military support for Russia amid ongoing tensions with the West indicates a deepening partnership between the two nations. The anticipated visit from Kim Jong Un further cements this collaboration, posing implications for regional stability and international diplomatic efforts.
Original Source: www.rfa.org
