Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has revealed that North Korean soldiers are now on Russian soil and actively fighting against Ukrainian forces. He reported that about 11,000 North Korean troops are stationed in the Russian region of Kursk, where a recent clash took place, leading to fatalities. Although Zelensky did not specify which side suffered losses, reports from the United States indicate that North Korean soldiers were involved in a limited battle and that some may have been killed.
“Eleven thousand North Korean soldiers or soldiers of the North Korean army are currently present on the territory of the Russian Federation in the border with Ukraine on the north of our country in the Kursk region,” Zelensky told reporters at the European Political Community summit in Budapest, Hungary, on Thursday.
“Some of these troops have already taken part in hostilities against the Ukrainian military. Yes, there are already losses, this is a fact.”
This development has drawn significant international attention, as it indicates a stronger alliance between Moscow and Pyongyang. With North Korean forces reportedly backing Russian troops, the United States and its allies are now closely considering how to respond to this intensifying partnership.
“We’re ready,” the Russian leader said when asked whether he would hold talks with Trump, while addressing a discussion forum in the Black Sea resort city of Sochi.
At the same time, Russian President Vladimir Putin has expressed interest in discussing the conflict with President-elect Donald Trump, who recently won the U.S. election. Putin praised Trump for his willingness to consider ending the war, saying Trump’s suggestions “deserve attention.” Trump’s upcoming term comes at a time when Ukraine faces one of the most intense Russian offensives since the war began.
Zelensky has been urging world leaders to provide Ukraine with advanced, long-range weapons to help counter this “new wave of escalation.” Speaking from Budapest, he expressed frustration, saying global leaders are not doing enough to back Ukraine against this increased threat. He cautioned that, without additional support, North Korea’s involvement could grow further, making the situation even more challenging for Ukraine.
“We believe that if we do not use appropriate weapons and political pressure on the Russian Federation, the next step may be much more use of the North Korean contingent,” he said.
As tensions continue to rise, the situation underscores the complexities of the Russia-Ukraine conflict and the significant role international alliances play in shaping its outcome.
