On Monday(4/28/25), North Korean state media confirmed for the first time that troops from the country had been deployed to assist Russia’s military efforts against Ukraine. Leader Kim Jong Un authorized the move under a strategic partnership treaty signed last year with Russian President Vladimir Putin, according to a statement from the Central Military Commission.
The Korean Central News Agency (KCNA) reported that North Korean forces helped Russian units retake territory in the Kursk region, describing the mission as a display of loyalty and solidarity. Kim praised the soldiers, calling them heroes who defended the honor of their homeland while aiding Russia.
Moscow also acknowledged the North Korean contribution publicly over the weekend. In a statement issued by the Kremlin, President Putin thanked North Korean forces for their participation and sacrifice, emphasizing the bonds formed between the two countries on the battlefield.
The United States reacted by calling for an immediate end to North Korea’s support for Russia, citing violations of United Nations Security Council resolutions. U.S. officials said countries assisting the conflict share responsibility for its continuation. South Korean authorities described the troop deployment as a “criminal act” that endangered the lives of young North Koreans.
Military analysts estimate that Pyongyang sent roughly 11,000 troops to Russia last fall, including reinforcements deployed earlier this year. Reports suggest North Korean units faced heavy losses early in their deployment due to their limited experience with drone warfare and the battlefield conditions around Kursk. However, Ukrainian officials have said the North Korean forces adapted over time and contributed to Russia’s efforts through sheer numbers.
Ukraine’s military has disputed Russia’s claim of full control over the Kursk region. Ukrainian Special Operations Forces recently reported eliminating a North Korean unit and released images showing evidence, including documents written in Korean, recovered from the scene.
This is North Korea’s first confirmed direct involvement in a foreign conflict since the Korean War. Analysts believe Pyongyang’s open announcement strengthens its growing ties with Moscow while seeking political and economic benefits in return. There are also concerns that deeper cooperation could include transfers of advanced weapons technology from Russia to North Korea.
The confirmation comes at a time when peace efforts are underway. President Donald Trump and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy met over the weekend in Vatican City to discuss prospects for a ceasefire. Trump has urged both sides to engage in high-level talks, though skepticism remains about Russia’s willingness to negotiate after recent battlefield developments.
As the conflict continues, North Korea’s involvement adds another layer of complexity. Its participation not only affects the military balance but also signals shifts in global alliances, as both Russia and North Korea deepen their cooperation in defiance of international sanctions and diplomatic pressure.
Image is licensed under the Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International license and was created by the Presidential Executive Office of Russia.
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