Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin stated that there is evidence of North Korean troops in Russia, although it is unclear what their specific role is. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has reported intelligence indicating the presence of up to 12,000 North Korean troops supporting Russia in its war against Ukraine. South Korean lawmakers revealed that North Korea has sent 3,000 troops to Russia, double the previous estimate, with a total promise of 10,000 troops to be deployed by December. Signs of troops being trained in North Korea were observed in September and October before being dispersed to various training facilities in Russia.
Both Moscow and Pyongyang have denied arms transfers, but have strengthened military ties with a mutual defense treaty. The U.S. has expressed concern over North Korean involvement and is consulting with allies on the matter. South Korea has urged for the withdrawal of North Korean troops from Russia and warned of potentially supplying lethal weapons to Ukraine if military ties with North Korea escalate further.
There have been reports of families of selected North Korean soldiers being relocated and controlled to prevent rumors from spreading. Russian instructors are training the North Korean soldiers in the use of military equipment, such as drones, noting their lack of understanding of modern warfare. South Korea’s intelligence agency confirmed the recruitment of interpreters by Russia for the North Korean soldiers, raising concerns about potential casualties if they are deployed to the front lines.
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