The White House is closely monitoring alarming reports of North Korean soldiers being deployed to Russia to support its war efforts in Ukraine. John Kirby, National Security Council spokesman, called the potential deployment a “dangerous and highly concerning development,” signaling Putin’s growing desperation as his forces suffer heavy casualties.
Though the U.S. and NATO have not confirmed the presence of North Korean troops, South Korean intelligence suggests that 1,500 North Korean special operations forces are already in Russia, with reports of up to 10,000 more soldiers being prepared. This unprecedented move has raised fears that Russia may provide advanced military technologies to North Korea in return, heightening concerns about the North’s nuclear capabilities.
South Korea swiftly summoned Russia’s ambassador to protest this deepening military cooperation and demanded the immediate withdrawal of North Korean troops. Meanwhile, Putin remains active on the world stage, set to meet with leaders of China, India, and Iran at the BRICS summit in Russia, defying predictions of international isolation amid his war in Ukraine.
As the conflict continues, this latest development could intensify tensions and further complicate the geopolitical landscape, with potential repercussions for global security.