Russian TV Acknowledges North Korean Troop Involvement in Ukraine War

Russian state TV acknowledged the presence and losses of North Korean troops in Ukraine. Dmitry Abzalov stated that North Korean soldiers have been depleted and that reinforcements are expected. Analysts observe that combat experience gained in Ukraine may improve North Korean military effectiveness. Future troop contributions from North Korea and joint military projects are anticipated.

A Kremlin propagandist on Russian state television recently disclosed the involvement of North Korean troops in the Ukraine conflict, revealing a shortage of available soldiers and indicating the anticipation of reinforcements arriving soon. Reports estimate that around 11,000 North Korean troops have been dispatched to support Russia, particularly positioned in the Kursk region. This area has faced challenges as Russian forces struggle to fend off a Ukrainian counteroffensive that began in August.

According to estimates from Kyiv, approximately one-third of the North Korean forces have suffered casualties, either killed or injured, though this number is unverified. Despite earlier reports suggesting a withdrawal, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky confirmed that some troops have returned to the front lines. Notably, neither Moscow nor Pyongyang has officially recognized the presence of North Korean military personnel in Ukraine.

During a recent broadcast of a Russian state TV program, Dmitry Abzalov, a political analyst, made an unexpected comment regarding the situation of North Korean soldiers. He stated, “North Korean soldiers who fought—we ran out of them, and the next batch is coming within a month,” indicating the significant loss of troops. Furthermore, host Olga Skabeyeva expressed surprise at the revelation, highlighting the lack of coverage by state media.

International analysts have commented on the implications of Abzalov’s statement. Collin Koh from Singapore’s Institute of Defense and Strategic Studies remarked on the cavalier attitude in acknowledging troop shortages, while the Australian Strategic Policy Institute noted that although North Korean forces have not demonstrated high effectiveness, they are gaining valuable combat experience in the conflict.

The future contribution of North Korean troops to the Russian war effort remains uncertain, but South Korea’s Joint Chiefs of Staff anticipate further troop and equipment deployments. Additionally, reports indicate that North Korea and Russia plan to initiate joint drone production, with technical support from Russia in exchange for military assistance from Pyongyang, as reported by NHK.

In summary, the involvement of North Korean troops in the Ukraine conflict has been acknowledged by Russian media, indicating heavy casualties and expectations for new reinforcements. Analysts suggest that while North Korean soldiers have not been particularly effective, they are gaining experience that could enhance their capabilities. The precise scale of future North Korean military contributions remains unclear, as both nations prepare for expanded collaborations, including joint drone production initiatives.

Original Source: www.newsweek.com