Zelenskyy Warns Ukraine Will Fight North Korean Troops Amid Escalating Conflict with Russia

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has raised concerns about the potential involvement of North Korean troops in the ongoing conflict. In an evening address shared on Telegram, he warned that the introduction of North Korean forces on the battlefield could occur "any day now." Zelenskyy emphasized that Ukraine would be compelled to engage in combat against North Korea in Europe if their troops were deployed, adding that the situation was a sign of the need for increased support from Western allies.

Potential Deployment of North Korean Troops

Earlier this week, Zelenskyy indicated that Ukrainian intelligence anticipated the deployment of North Korean troops in combat zones as early as October 27 or 28, describing it as a "clear escalation by Russia." This assessment aligns with reports from South Korea's National Intelligence Service (NIS) that North Korea was preparing to send thousands of troops to Russia to bolster Russian President Vladimir Putin's forces. The Defense Intelligence of Ukraine has confirmed that Russia has started transporting North Korean soldiers to the front lines in support of Putin's military efforts.

International Reactions and Concerns

The concerns about North Korean involvement have also been echoed by the United States and NATO, both of which have confirmed evidence of North Korean soldiers in Russia. White House spokesperson John Kirby revealed that it was estimated that North Korea had dispatched at least 3,000 soldiers to eastern Russia for training. According to Kirby, the potential entry of North Korean troops into combat would reflect Russia's increasing desperation in its military operations against Ukraine.

Upcoming Briefing and Implications

A South Korean delegation is scheduled to brief NATO on the as potential North Korean involvement, and Mark Rutte, the Secretary General of NATO, is expected to address the media following the meeting. The situation raises significant imperative considerations for regional stability and security, as the potential deployment of North Korean forces could further escalate the conflict in Ukraine and have far-reaching implications for international relations.