North Korea Sends Citizens to Assist Russian Military, Says Zelensky
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has stated that North Korea is sending citizens to support Russia’s military efforts in Ukraine. This revelation raises alarms about the growing alliance between Moscow and the secretive state.
Growing Alliance Between Moscow and Pyongyang
In his daily video message, Zelensky remarked, “We see an increasing alliance between Russia and regimes like North Korea. It is no longer just about transferring weapons; it is now about transferring people from North Korea to the occupying military forces.” This claim comes amidst a warming relationship between Russia and North Korea, highlighted by Russian President Vladimir Putin’s rare visit to North Korea in June, marking the first such visit in over two decades.
Implications for Ukraine and Its Allies
Western analysts have been speculating on the extent of North Korea’s support for Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. In light of these developments, Zelensky emphasized the need to strengthen Ukraine’s relations with its partners, stating, “The frontline needs more support.” He reiterated his appeal for Western nations to permit Kyiv to use long-range missiles against Russian targets.
Insights from Ukrainian Intelligence
Moreover, a source from Ukrainian intelligence, who wished to remain anonymous, disclosed that a small number of North Koreans have been collaborating with the Russian military. Primarily, they are engaged in engineering roles and sharing expertise on North Korean ammunition. According to the source, some North Korean personnel have recently been killed in eastern Ukraine, underscoring the risks involved.
Kremlin’s Response to the Allegations
In response to Zelensky’s claims, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov dismissed the allegations as “another hoax.” However, South Korea’s National Intelligence Service is actively monitoring the situation and believes there may be some truth to the claims, indicating that this issue is far from settled.
As the situation evolves, the implications of this alliance will continue to unfold, further complicating the dynamics in the region.
