Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said North Korea will deploy up to 50,000 troops to Russia to fight in support of Moscow. The figure is higher than a previous estimate in July of 30,000 troops, according to Zelensky's claim on social media X on Sunday (9/8).
Zelensky also stated that Kyiv found a number of North Korean missiles in Ukrainian territory, though he did not reveal their location. He warned that North Korea would continue to build experience in modern warfare while receiving licenses and military equipment from Russia.
A Ukrainian military intelligence official told Reuters that North Korean missile units had begun deployment to western Russian territory and were likely equipped with 120 ballistic missiles and six launchers to strike Ukraine. Kyiv is currently experiencing a shortage of high-capability air defence systems, while Russia is believed to be taking advantage of this situation by increasing its use of ballistic missiles.
Zelensky called on South Korea to provide support to strengthen Ukraine's air defence and urged Seoul to increase cooperation on air defence systems. He added that Ukrainian diplomats are communicating with Seoul to promote the possibility of a cooperation agreement, including in the field of drones.
The North Korean Embassy in Russia and South Korea's Ministry of Foreign Affairs have not responded to the claims. The deployment of North Korean troops aligns with a comprehensive strategic partnership agreement signed by Russian President Vladimir Putin and North Korean leader Kim Jong Un in June 2024, which includes provisions for mutual assistance if either country faces aggression from outside.
