‘If It’s True, Putin Miscalculated’: Russians Skeptical Over North Korean Troop Rumors

In recent developments, most Russians reportedly view the news of North Korean troops being sent to Russia as “fake news.” The Russian government not only denies the deployment of these troops but is also actively withholding this information from the public. In Moscow, residents express doubt, with some remarking, “If North Korean troop deployments are real, Putin has made a serious error.”

On Monday, a Moscow-based source said, “Despite the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, most residents of Moscow remain calm and believe the reports about North Korean troops in Russia are untrue.” The source elaborated, “Fake news has become quite prevalent in Russia lately. The government claims that the reports about North Korean troop deployments are also fake, and most citizens seem to accept this narrative.”

They further noted the potential for significant fallout, warning, “If North Korea has indeed deployed troops to Russia, it would severely damage future relations between Russia and South Korea, which is not what the Russian people desire. Many Russians are concerned about the potential fallout from North Korean troop deployments on Russia-South Korea relations.”

Moscow residents are also worried about certain Western media outlets suggesting that South Korea might supply lethal weapons to Ukraine in reaction to the North Korean troop deployments in Russia. Critics argue that the Russian government’s handling of this situation could inadvertently push South Korea to support Ukraine rather than remain neutral.

“If the deployment of North Korean troops is confirmed, it is being suggested that Putin has made a significant miscalculation,” the source added. “Should South Korea respond by sending troops to Ukraine, the disappointment would be felt across Russia, especially among university students and older generations in Moscow.”

Finally, the source pointed to the Korean community in Moscow, which, under the guidance of the Korean Association, is advising caution in light of North Korea’s troop deployments to Russia. Given the sensitive nature of these reports, the community remains discreet and wary of potential repercussions from the Russian government against South Koreans.