North Korean Troops Face Significant Losses in Russia-Ukraine Conflict

South Korea reports that over 100 North Korean soldiers were killed and about 1,000 injured while fighting for Russia in Ukraine’s Kursk region. Intelligence suggests their losses stem from inexperience with drones and unfamiliar terrain. There are indications North Korea may deploy additional troops as they continue to assist Russia in the conflict, sending military supplies and personnel.

In recent developments, South Korea has reported significant casualties among North Korean troops fighting alongside Russian forces in Ukraine. South Korean Member of Parliament, Lee Seong-kweun, informed Reuters that at least 100 North Korean soldiers have died and around 1,000 more were injured during intense combat in the Kursk region, indicating the grim realities of the battlefield.

Lee, citing intelligence assessments, emphasized that the heavy losses stemmed from the North Korean troops’ inexperience with drone operations and their unfamiliarity with the open terrain. This information was presented following a confidential briefing from the National Intelligence Service (NIS) held in the South Korean parliament.

There seems to be some confusion around casualty figures. Lee pointed out that while his figure indicates over 100 dead, a US military official provided a different estimate, suggesting several hundred losses. He attributed this variation to a more cautious approach undertaken by the NIS regarding their analysis.

Concerns are rising that North Korea may be preparing to send more troops. This aligns with assertions from US and Ukrainian officials who noted that North Korean casualties have been substantial. Reports reveal that Russia is deploying these troops in considerable numbers in its efforts in the Kursk area.

According to information from US and South Korean officials, over 10,000 North Korean soldiers have been dispatched to assist Russia in the conflict. Additionally, North Korea has supposedly sent over 10,000 shipping containers filled with various artillery supplies, including anti-tank missiles and howitzers. As of now, both North Korea and Russia have not officially acknowledged the presence of their troops or the shipments of arms.

A key moment in the North Korea-Russia relationship occurred when President Vladimir Putin visited Pyongyang in June to establish a “comprehensive strategic partnership” with Kim Jong Un. This agreement reportedly includes a mutual defense pact, raising further concerns about military cooperation between the two nations.

Andrii Kovalenko, the head of the Center for Countering Disinformation, also highlighted on December 18 that North Korean military losses in the Kursk region could have exceeded 200 troops. President Volodymyr Zelenskyy noted on December 16 that Russia had indeed begun employing North Korean soldiers in the fighting in the Kursk area. This indicates a troubling trend where countries previously isolated are becoming more militarily intertwined amid global tensions.

In conclusion, the situation regarding North Korean troop losses in Ukraine is alarming, with at least 100 soldiers confirmed dead and around 1,000 injured, according to South Korean intelligence. The lack of experience among these soldiers is reportedly exacerbating their losses in combat. As tensions escalate, the potential for North Korea’s further military involvement with Russia raises critical concerns for regional security and international relations.

Original Source: newsukraine.rbc.ua