The involvement of North Korean troops in the war against Ukraine raises serious concerns among all G7 members, stated U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken.
During a press conference in Italy, he mentioned that the increase in aid to Ukraine is aimed at strengthening its defense in the east and responding to the emergence of North Korean forces. According to Blinken, this impacts not only Ukraine but also the security of Europe and the Indo-Pacific region:
"The relationship between Russia and North Korea is a two-way street. We see what North Korea is currently doing for Russia in Ukraine by deploying troops, but we are also closely monitoring what Russia is doing and may do for North Korea, including potentially enhancing its missile and nuclear capabilities."
North Korean Troops in the War
According to the General Staff of the Armed Forces of Ukraine, the Russian Federation currently has over 11,000 North Korean military personnel stationed in the Kursk region.
Chief of the General Staff Anatoly Burilovich reported that Russian command has already engaged soldiers from North Korea in battles against the Ukrainian military.