US Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin revealed that approximately 10,000 North Korean soldiers stationed in Russia's Kursk region are expected to enter combat operations against Ukraine in the near future.
Speaking during his visit to Fiji, Austin noted that these North Korean forces are being integrated into Russian military formations near the Ukrainian border. "Based upon what they've been trained on, the way they've been integrated into the Russian formations, I fully expect to see them engaged in combat soon," Austin stated.
While the Pentagon chief indicated there has not yet been substantial evidence of North Korean troops actively participating in combat operations, the deployment represents an escalating partnership between Moscow and Pyongyang.
According to intelligence officials from South Korea, Russia has provided North Korea with oil supplies, anti-air missile systems, and nuclear technology exchange in exchange for military support. Both Washington and Seoul have confirmed these arrangements between the two nations.
The presence of North Korean forces adds to growing concerns about Russia's military buildup. Ukrainian officials have warned that Russia has assembled a force of approximately 50,000 troops, including the North Korean contingent, with apparent aims to reclaim territories in the border region that were captured by Ukrainian forces during a surprise offensive in August.
This development comes as Russia continues aggressive military actions, including recent missile strikes on Ukrainian cities. The Russian president has also warned of plans to conduct additional tests of new missile systems in combat scenarios.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has called for strong international response to these actions while working to enhance air defense capabilities against emerging threats. Meanwhile, Ukraine's parliament recently canceled sessions due to increased risks of Russian attacks on government facilities in Kyiv.
The integration of North Korean troops into Russian forces marks an unprecedented level of military cooperation between the two countries and signals potential intensification of combat operations in the ongoing conflict.