Zelenskyy: Russia Deploys North Korean Troops for First Time in Kursk Region Assaults

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy confirmed that Russia has deployed North Korean soldiers for the first time to assault Ukrainian positions in Russia's Kursk region.

“Today, we already have preliminary data that the Russians have begun to use North Korean soldiers in their assaults. A significant number of them. The Russians include them in combined units and use them in operations in the Kursk region,” Zelenskyy said in his evening address on December 14.

According to the President, there is data indicating that DPRK ’s troops may be sent in other directions as well.

“So far, only there. But we have information suggesting their use could extend to other parts of the frontline. There are also already noticeable losses in this category,” he added.

Zelenskyy called this move by Russia an escalation.

“In essence, Moscow has dragged another state into this war, and to the fullest extent possible. And if this is not escalation, then what is the escalation that so many have been talking about? It is Putin who is taking steps to extend and prolong this war. He is the one pushing away any possibility of peace. Moreover, he wants to create more problems for the world in Asia. This is why the Russians are training North Korea in modern warfare,” Zelenskyy stated.

Previously, on December 13, Ukrainian intelligence reported that North Korean military units recruited by Russia for its war against Ukraine were put on high alert and were expected to begin direct involvement in combat operations soon.