Zelenskyy Responds to Russia’s Plans to Involve North Korean Troops in the War Against Ukraine

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has reported an increase in military cooperation between Russia and North Korea, noting a shift from arms transfers to the potential involvement of North Korean personnel in the war. This statement was made during his evening address on the 963rd day of the war.

Zelenskyy pointed out the growing alliance between Russia and North Korea, stating, “We see that the partnership is strengthening. This is not just about the transfer of weapons; it also includes the deployment of North Korean personnel to support Russian forces.”

In response to these developments, the president emphasized the need for enhanced military support from Ukraine’s international partners. “Our relationships with partners must adapt to these conditions. The front requires greater support. When we talk about improved long-range capabilities for Ukraine and more decisive supplies for our forces, it is about increasing pressure on the aggressor to a level they cannot sustain. It is also about preventing a wider war,” he said.

Zelenskyy reiterated that achieving peace requires strength. “The upcoming week will focus on collaboration with our partners to build that strength for a sustainable peace. Our teams will be active, and discussions with leaders will take place. We hope that decision-making will proceed promptly,” he added.

Earlier, Andrii Kovalеnko, head of the Center for Countering Disinformation, explained why Russia wants to involve North Korean military personnel in the war. He noted that after the situation in the Kursk region, the Kremlin realized that conscript soldiers are unable to fight effectively.

Kovalеnko remarked, “The story about the enemy preparing North Korean troops is about an attempt to deploy Koreans to guard the Russian border as reinforcements for border guards and certain conscripts.” He added that Putin likely prefers that, in the event of capture, it would be North Koreans who fall into enemy hands.

Reports have emerged indicating that more than 20 soldiers were killed near Donetsk due to a missile strike on October 3, including six North Korean officers. Furthermore, the Washington Post has reported that several thousand North Korean soldiers are currently undergoing training in Russia and may be deployed to the front in Ukraine by the end of the year.