Zelenskiy says North Korea moved personnel to Russia for war in Ukraine

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy stated on Sunday that the defense partnerships with his country’s allies must adapt in response to North Korea‘s transfer of personnel and weaponry to Russian forces in Ukraine.

The Kremlin, however, rejected South Korean claims made on Thursday that North Korea might have dispatched military personnel to assist Russia in its conflict with Ukraine and could be considering a larger deployment.

Zelenskiy emphasized in his evening video address, “We are witnessing a strengthening alliance between Russia and regimes like North Korea. This situation extends beyond mere weapon transfers; it involves the movement of personnel from North Korea to the occupying forces.” He further noted, “Given these circumstances, it is clear that our relationships with partners must evolve. The front line requires increased support. We are advocating for enhanced long-range capabilities for Ukraine and more consistent supplies for our forces, rather than just a basic inventory of military equipment.”

South Korea’s Defence Minister Kim Yong-hyun stated on Tuesday that there is a significant likelihood that North Korea may send troops to assist Russia in its conflict with Ukraine. During a parliamentary session, he also indicated that reports regarding the deaths of North Korean military personnel in a Ukrainian attack on areas held by Russian forces are probably accurate.

In response to inquiries on Thursday about North Korea potentially deploying troops to Ukraine, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov dismissed the claims, labeling them as “another instance of fake news.”