North Korean Troops in Ukraine May Face Dire Consequences: UN

The United States envoy to the UN, Robert Wood, has issued a stern warning to North Korean forces considering entering Ukraine. He stated that such forces "will surely return in body bags." Wood delivered this message during a UN security council meeting on Wednesday. He cautioned Pyongyang’s forces against supporting Russia in Ukraine, advising North Korean Chairman Kim Jong-un to reconsider such dangerous behavior.

North Korean Troops in Russia

Reports over the past few weeks suggest that approximately 10,000 North Korean troops are currently in Russia, having arrived at Russia's far eastern port of Vladivostok. US Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin addressed this issue in a separate briefing on Wednesday. He urged the North Korean troops to withdraw from Russia. Austin stated that the United States would continue to collaborate with allies and partners to discourage Russia from using these troops in combat.

Foreign Forces as Legitimate Military Targets

Earlier this week, the White House declared that these foreign forces would become "legitimate military targets" if they join the fight against Ukraine. Austin also confirmed that the North Korean troops would be considered co-belligerents and could face casualties as a result of battle. Despite these warnings, Austin also cautioned Ukraine and Western allies that there is a "good likelihood" that Moscow will still proceed. Austin explained that if North Korean troops fight alongside Russian soldiers in this conflict and attack Ukrainian soldiers, the Ukrainians have the right to defend themselves.

Ukraine's Allegations and Expectations

Ukraine has alleged that these forces are aiding Russia in establishing control in Kursk province, where Ukrainian forces have occupied large areas of land since the cross-border incursion began in early August. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has stated that he anticipates clashes between North Korean and Ukrainian troops within days. In an interview with the Korean Broadcasting System, South Korea's national broadcaster, Zelensky said that North Korean troops have not yet participated in battles but are preparing to do so in Kursk.

NATO's Warning to Moscow and Pyongyang

NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte also warned Moscow and Pyongyang earlier this week. He said, "The deepening military cooperation between Russia and North Korea is a threat to both the Indo-Pacific and Euro-Atlantic security." He further claimed that the deployment of North Korean troops to Kursk is a sign of Putin's growing desperation.

Russia's Response

In response to these allegations, Russia’s Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov referred to a security and defense treaty signed by Moscow and Pyongyang in June. He stated that the treaty does not violate any provisions of international law as it involves providing assistance in case one of the treaty parties is militarily attacked. Lavrov insisted that Russia's position on this matter is honest and open, but no specific details have been disclosed about where DPRK soldiers might be operating.

Bottom Line

The situation in Ukraine continues to evolve, with the potential involvement of North Korean troops adding another layer of complexity. The stern warnings from the US and NATO highlight the seriousness of the situation and the potential consequences for those involved. What are your thoughts on this development? Do you think North Korea will heed the warnings or proceed with its plans? Share this article with your friends and let us know your thoughts. Remember, you can sign up for the Daily Briefing, which is delivered every day at 6pm.