U.S. President Joe Biden has stated that Ukraine should take action against North Korean troops if they enter the country to assist Russian forces.
His remarks come as officials have indicated that these troops are expected to approach the frontlines in the coming weeks. When asked about the presence of North Korean soldiers already in Russia, Biden said the Ukrainian forces should hit them if they cross into their territory. (Related: U.S. says North Korea has deployed troops to support Russia in war against Ukraine.)
American intelligence agencies have suggested that North Korea has deployed around 10,000 troops, with several thousand already moving toward Russia's Kursk region, an area where Ukrainian forces are currently engaged in conflict with Russian troops.
According to U.S. Department of Defense (DoD) spokesperson Brig. Gen. Patrick Ryder, a small number of these troops are already in the region, with the rest undergoing training in eastern North Korea, anticipated to be deployed soon for combat operations.
Ryder echoed U.S. Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin’s assessment that Russia's decision to welcome North Korean forces reflects a dire situation regarding its manpower and operational capacity. This was further highlighted during a recent discussion between National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan and Andriy Yermak, head of the Office of the President of Ukraine, confirming the U.S.'s commitment to supporting Ukraine.
The potential deployment of North Korean soldiers has raised alarms, especially after reports indicated that these troops were not only on Russian soil but actively participating in combat in western regions adjacent to Ukraine.
South Korea's National Intelligence Service has long warned of North Korea's preparations to send military personnel, including fighter pilots, with estimates suggesting over 12,000 could arrive by year's end.
While both Moscow and Pyongyang have dismissed these reports as "fake news," intelligence sources connected to the North Atlantic Treaty Organization have confirmed the presence of North Korean troops in the Kursk region, categorizing it as a significant escalation in North Korea's involvement in the conflict.
NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte described this development as a threat to global security and a violation of international law, linking it to Russian President Vladimir Putin’s increasing desperation amid heavy losses.
The DoD reaffirmed the intelligence on North Korean troops, indicating they could soon engage in combat against Ukraine. Deputy Pentagon spokeswoman Sabrina Singh expressed concerns about their potential role in bolstering Russian operations.
Ukraine threatening to declare war on North Korea
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has been proactive in addressing this issue, discussing the situation with South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol and emphasizing that the conflict is evolving into a broader international struggle. He noted that the arrival of North Korean troops could force Ukraine to confront them directly on European soil.
As the Kremlin prepared for meetings with North Korean Foreign Minister Choe Son Hui, Zelensky warned that this could lead to a direct conflict between Ukraine and North Korea. The Pentagon has made it clear that should North Korean forces engage in battle, there would be no limitations on Ukraine's use of U.S. weapons against them.
This unfolding situation raises questions about North Korea's motives for sending troops. While North Korea is often accused of providing military support to Russia, analysts suggest that the regime could be seeking advanced military technology and strategic advantages in return.
North Korea's military collaboration with Russia, especially following the signing of a mutual defense pact, indicates a strengthening alliance that could yield benefits for both parties. Observers note that North Korea might gain access to critical military technology, enhancing its capabilities and providing battlefield experience for its troops, which could be valuable if tensions rise on the Korean Peninsula.
However, experts warn that North Korean soldiers may face challenges in adapting to the Russian military environment, given their lack of combat experience and potential language barriers. While Ukraine has attempted to appeal to these soldiers to defect, promising better conditions, the reality of strict monitoring and the risk of severe repercussions for surrendering could deter such actions.
As the situation continues to develop, the implications of North Korean involvement in the Ukraine conflict could reshape regional dynamics and international responses, with both Ukraine and its allies closely monitoring the evolving landscape.
Watch this "TruNews" broadcast reporting on the thousands of North Korean soldiers moving into Ukraine to support Russia.
This video is from the TruNews channel on Brighteon.com.
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