The U.S. State Department confirmed on Tuesday that North Korean forces have begun combat operations alongside Russian troops in Russia’s western Kursk region. This marks the first official acknowledgment by the U.S. government of North Korea’s direct involvement in the conflict.
In a press briefing, Deputy Spokesperson Vedant Patel reported that over 10,000 North Korean soldiers have entered Russia, with the majority stationed in Kursk. Patel stated that these troops are now actively engaged in combat operations alongside Russian units in the area.
Patel further detailed that North Korean personnel are undergoing joint training with Russian forces, focusing primarily on drone operations and basic infantry tactics. However, he noted that the collaboration faces several logistical hurdles, including language barriers, differing command structures, and communication challenges.
Patel explained that the success of these joint operations will depend on how well North Korean forces can integrate with the Russian military. He added that the United States is working closely with regional allies and partners to assess the broader implications of this development.
Russia aims to recapture portions of Kursk that Ukrainian forces have seized. Approximately 50,000 troops, including the North Korean contingent, have been deployed to engage Ukrainian forces.
Pentagon spokesperson Maj. Gen. Pat Ryder confirmed the reports during a separate press conference, stating that North Korean forces have begun combat operations alongside Russian troops. He also revealed that U.S. Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin and Ukrainian Defense Minister Rustem Umerov held a phone conversation to discuss North Korea’s involvement in the conflict.
Ryder emphasized that the United States is fully committed to providing Ukraine with the necessary security assistance to defend its sovereignty and territorial integrity.
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