Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky raised alarm on Sunday, asserting that North Koreans are not only supplying weapons but also joining Russian forces in the ongoing conflict in Ukraine.
In his nightly video address, Zelensky emphasized the deepening alliance between Russia and North Korea, highlighting the need for Ukraine to adapt its defense strategies in response to this evolving threat.
“It’s clear that this collaboration extends beyond just arms; it involves the transfer of personnel from North Korea to the occupiers’ military,” he stated.
Zelenskiy called for a reevaluation of Ukraine’s defense relationships with its partners, emphasizing that the situation on the front line requires more robust support.
South Korea’s Defense Minister Kim Yong-hyun corroborated Zelenskiy’s claims, indicating that there is a significant likelihood North Korea could deploy troops to assist Russia in Ukraine.
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Kim also suggested that reports of North Korean military officers being killed in Ukrainian strikes are credible, further illustrating the complexities of the conflict.
In response to these allegations, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov dismissed the claims as “another bit of fake news,” reiterating Moscow’s stance that no North Korean troops are involved.
However, the situation has heightened tensions and raised concerns about the implications of a stronger Russia-North Korea alliance.
Zelenskiy emphasized the urgency for Ukraine to secure more advanced military capabilities, specifically calling for long-range systems and sustained supply lines rather than just a simple list of military hardware.
“Our partners must recognize the gravity of this situation and respond accordingly,” he urged.
As the conflict continues to evolve, the involvement of North Korean personnel could alter the dynamics on the battlefield, compelling Ukraine to seek greater support from its allies to counter this new threat.