Putin Calls for North Korea and China to Join Ukraine Ceasefire Discussions

Russian President Vladimir Putin stated that Ukraine could be under a “temporary administration” amid peace discussions that could involve North Korea and BRICS nations. North Korea has reportedly sent additional troops to Russia, supporting its military efforts in Ukraine. A ceasefire, brokered by the U.S., is contingent on lifting certain sanctions, which European leaders currently resist. Preparations for North Korean leader Kim Jong Un’s visit to Russia hint at deepening ties between the two countries.

In a recent statement, Russian President Vladimir Putin suggested that Ukraine might be managed under a “temporary administration” as part of peace discussions that could potentially involve North Korea and other allied countries. This pronouncement followed a report indicating that North Korea sent at least 3,000 troops to Russia during January and February. Putin emphasized the inclusion of not only the United States but also BRICS nations and North Korea in discussions for cooperation regarding the ongoing war in Ukraine.

The United States recently facilitated a tentative ceasefire agreement to halt hostilities in the Black Sea and allow safe navigation for commercial vessels. However, Russia’s adherence to this agreement remains dependent on the alleviation of specific Western sanctions that impact its agricultural exports, a request that European leaders are wary of considering at this juncture.

China has exhibited a nuanced approach to the Russia-Ukraine conflict, highlighting the importance of honoring Ukraine’s sovereignty, while also recognizing Russia’s security apprehensions linked to NATO’s expansion. North Korea’s engagement has escalated, with reports indicating it has stationed approximately 12,000 troops in support of Russia’s military operations in Ukraine, marking a notable shift in its military presence abroad since the 1950s.

The South Korean military confirmed the deployment of an additional 3,000 North Korean soldiers to Russia, in addition to the 11,000 previously reported. Confirming casualties, South Korea’s Joint Chiefs of Staff noted approximately 4,000 soldiers have been lost. North Korea has continued to provide Russia with missiles, ammunition, and artillery, including significant quantities of short-range ballistic missiles and howitzers.

Moreover, North Korea has showcased advancements in military technology, including new radar systems and drone capabilities, suggesting that technical assistance from Russia is facilitating its military developments. Additionally, preparations are reportedly underway for North Korean leader Kim Jong Un’s upcoming visit to Russia, signaling the strengthening ties between the two nations following a defense treaty signed last year.

In summary, President Putin advocates for a broader coalition involving North Korea and BRICS nations in peace talks related to Ukraine. The military relationship between Russia and North Korea is intensifying, marked by troop deployments and military support from North Korea to Russia. As negotiations for a ceasefire move forward, key issues such as sanctions and military aid remain critical points of concern for global leaders.

Original Source: www.rfa.org