A recent report from the Kyiv Independent has raised concerns about Russia's military efforts in Ukraine, with claims that the country is amassing North Korean soldiers to join the fight. According to a senior Ukrainian military intelligence official, a group known as the Buryat Battalion, consisting of around 3,000 North Koreans, is currently being gathered to support Russia's war effort in Ukraine.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has spoken out against this alleged coalition, referring to it as a "coalition of criminals" that includes North Korea, a country known for its oppressive regime. Zelenskyy has accused North Korea of sending workers and personnel to support Russia in the conflict, painting a grim picture of Ukraine fighting against two states.
The Kyiv Independent also reported that, according to an anonymous Western official, North Korea has sent as many as 10,000 soldiers to Russia to bolster its military presence in Ukraine. This information aligns with previous claims from Ukraine about North Korea supplying Russia with weapons and ammunition since the beginning of 2024.
Despite these reports, the Kremlin has dismissed allegations of North Korean involvement in the conflict as "fake news." However, the signing of a comprehensive strategic partnership treaty between Russia and North Korea earlier this year, which includes provisions for military assistance in the event of an attack, raises questions about the extent of their collaboration.
The situation in Ukraine continues to be a point of contention, with conflicting narratives and accusations from all sides. As the conflict unfolds, it remains to be seen how the involvement of North Korean soldiers will impact the dynamics on the ground.