Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky stated that Moscow plans to bring an additional 30,000 North Korean soldiers to join its ongoing war in Ukraine. He shared this update during his evening address, highlighting deepening military cooperation between Russia and Pyongyang.
Addressing the expansion, Zelensky warned that “Russia wants to receive another 30,000 troops from North Korea” to bolster its army.
Regional preparations
According to Ukrainian intelligence reports, ground preparations are already taking place in western Russia to host the extra forces.
Zelensky pointed out that “since June, preparations have been underway in Russia’s Voronezh region to receive them,” indicating long-term planning by Moscow to integrate foreign personnel into its operations.
Weapons and missile launchers
The cooperation between the two nations reaches beyond ground troops to advanced military hardware.
Zelensky added that “North Korea is also preparing to transfer additional launchers for ballistic missiles to Russia,” further equipping Russian forces on the battlefield.
Broader Asian security threat
Highlighting the international risks of this partnership, Zelensky cautioned that “this is a threat not only to Ukraine.” He explained that combat experience gained in Ukraine helps North Korea test and upgrade its weaponry, creating serious safety concerns for Asian nations within range of Pyongyang’s missiles.
Neither Russia nor North Korea has officially commented on these allegations.
