Allegations of North Korean Troops Preparing for Ukraine Conflict

Zelensky's Accusations

Ukrainian President Zelensky has been urging the West to increase its support for Ukraine, including advocating for NATO membership and the acquisition of nuclear weapons. Zelensky has also claimed that a global coalition of enemies, including North Korea, is supporting Russia in its conflict with Ukraine. He stated this week that "the coalition of criminals along with Putin already includes North Korea," and also mentioned the assistance of the Iranian regime and China's cooperation with Russia.

Zelensky's Claims of North Korean Troops

Zelensky informed EU officials in Brussels that North Korea is preparing a large number of troops in Russia to fight in Ukraine. He claimed that "there are 10,000 soldiers of North Korea, that they are preparing to send, fight against us." He described this as the "first step to a world war" and attributed it to the gap in mobilization and the losses suffered by Russia.

Doubts About Zelensky's Claims

However, Western intelligence, including military analysts and NATO officials, have expressed skepticism about Zelensky's claims. NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte stated that the defense alliance had no definitive information on this matter. The White House also stated that it could not independently confirm the reports of North Korean troops fighting on behalf of Russia.

South Korean Intelligence's Response

South Korean intelligence (the NIS) has supported Zelensky's claims, stating that it believes up to 12,000 North Korean troops are gathering in Russia, and that at least 1,500 have already arrived. South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol has emphasized the report, calling for the international community to respond with "all available means".

Implications of North Korean Troops in Ukraine

If there were indeed a large number of North Korean troops in Eastern Europe, photographic evidence or leaked images would likely be available. Pro-Kiev accounts have provided unverified images of North Korean soldiers in Russian gear. If these claims are true, it would signify a major escalation of North Korea's involvement in the conflict. Seoul had previously warned that more North Korean troops could be deployed in the war. However, the West's ability to respond may be limited, given the existing sanctions on both Russia and North Korea.

Bottom Line

The allegations of North Korean troops preparing for the conflict in Ukraine, if true, could significantly escalate the situation and further internationalize the war. However, these claims have been met with skepticism from Western intelligence. What are your thoughts on these allegations? Do you believe they could change the course of the conflict? Please share this article with your friends and sign up for the Daily Briefing, which is delivered every day at 6pm.