Russia, currently engaged in a war with Ukraine, is receiving support from North Korean troops due to a shortage of personnel. According to Kyiv Post, North Korea has organized a battalion-sized unit to assist Russian forces.
However, there are now reports of desertions. A senior official from the Ukrainian military announced that a group of North Korean soldiers deserted near Russia’s Bryansk region, close to the Ukrainian border. The soldiers are believed to be part of the military assistance agreed upon in a treaty signed by North Korea and Russia in June.
Intelligence suggests that 18 North Korean soldiers deserted approximately 7 kilometers (4 miles) northwest of the Ukrainian border between Russia’s Bryansk and Kursk regions. The Russian military is reportedly searching for them, although both the desertions and the presence of North Korean troops have been kept under wraps by Moscow.
There are growing suspicions about North Korea’s broader military support to Russia, which may extend beyond conventional weapons like shells and missiles.
Ukraine has condemned the growing North Korea-Russia alliance, calling it unacceptable that Russia is receiving not just weaponry but also manpower. The United States has also voiced concerns. The Washington Post reported that thousands of North Korean infantry are training in Russia and could be deployed to the front lines of the war by the end of the year.
Russian President Vladimir Putin visited North Korea earlier this year and signed a treaty with Kim Jong Un, establishing a comprehensive strategic partnership with provisions for mutual military assistance.
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