North Korea Enhances Military Ties with Russia Amid Troop Deployments
North Korea has sent an extra 3,000 troops to Russia, aligning with military cooperation with Moscow. Kim Jong-un’s upcoming visit to Russia marks a significant meeting with Putin since last June, amid the background of military deployments and conventional arms supply. The North is also restructuring its military training amid advancing nuclear capabilities.
Recent reports indicate that North Korea has dispatched an additional 3,000 troops to Russia in early 2025. This deployment is part of ongoing military cooperation between North Korean leader Kim Jong-un and Russian President Vladimir Putin. Preparations are underway for Kim’s visit to Russia later this year, marking the first direct meeting between the two leaders since June of last year, following a summit in Pyongyang where a defense agreement was signed.
The South Korean military has identified that North Korea previously sent approximately 11,000 soldiers to support Russia in its ongoing conflict in Ukraine, with casualty estimates suggesting that around 4,000 soldiers have been lost. South Korea’s Joint Chiefs of Staff noted the increased troop presence has occurred despite heavy losses.
Furthermore, North Korea continues to supply weapons to Russia, including significant quantities of short-range ballistic missiles and artillery systems. The potential continuation of this military support will depend on the evolving situation. Additionally, despite a failed attempt to launch a military reconnaissance satellite last May, North Korea is reportedly working with Russian support to improve its technology for future launches.
At the border area, North Korea has dismantled 11 transmission towers previously used to supply power to a now-closed industrial complex in Kaesong, a move interpreted as an effort to sever ties with South Korea. This comes amid a backdrop of reduced winter training for North Korean troops, who are being rerouted for military support efforts and infrastructure projects.
Tensions remain high as North Korea’s nuclear weapons program advances alongside its deepening relationship with Russia. The situation is further compounded by ongoing critiques from North Korea against the US and South Korea’s military collaboration, especially regarding US strategic deployments in the region.
North Korea’s military support for Russia has escalated, with an additional 3,000 troops deployed despite significant casualties from previous deployments. Ongoing arms support further strengthens military ties. The impending visit of Kim Jong-un to Russia is expected to reinforce collaboration, while North Korea’s strategic military maneuvers and nuclear ambitions continue to pose regional threats amidst evolving diplomatic circumstances.
Original Source: asianews.network
