Barely a week after North Korea rejected accusations of deploying troops to Russia, the White House reported a different story. At least 3,000 North Korean soldiers arrived in eastern Russia this month. National Security Council spokesman John Kirby said these soldiers likely traveled by ship from Wonsan, North Korea, to Vladivostok, Russia. Officials worry these troops may join the fight against Ukraine after training.
Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin confirmed the deployment. He said, “We are seeing evidence that North Korean troops have gone to Russia. What exactly they’re doing is left to be seen.” He emphasized their presence could escalate the conflict.
The U.S. believes the North Korean troops have not yet reached Ukraine, but their movement raises alarms. Austin noted, “If they’re a co-belligerent, their intention is to participate in this war on Russia’s behalf. This will impact Europe and the Indo-Pacific.”
Kirby stated the U.S. has briefed the Ukrainian government and keeps close communication with allies. A senior official suggested that Russia’s decision to train North Korean soldiers shows desperation.
Austin remarked, “Putin may be in more trouble than most people realize.” Kirby added that seeking North Korean manpower indicates Kremlin weakness and violates UN Security Council Resolutions.
If North Korean troops deploy against Ukraine, Kirby said, “They’re fair game. They’re fair targets.” Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky warned that North Korean troops are preparing to join the conflict, citing “10,000” soldiers and technical personnel. South Korea’s National Intelligence Service reported North Korea sent 1,500 soldiers, including special forces, to Russia for training.
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