Zelenskyy discusses DPRK military involvement in war with South Korean President
The President of Ukraine, Volodymyr Zelenskyy, had a telephone conversation with the President of the Republic of Korea, Yoon Suk-yeol. The Ukrainian leader thanked him for the consistent support of Ukraine's sovereignty and territorial integrity, according to a post by the head of state on Telegram.
Zelenskyy also expressed gratitude for the financial and humanitarian assistance provided and announced by South Korea.
During the conversation, the issue of North Korean military participation in the Russian invasion of Ukraine was discussed. Zelenskyy provided updated information about the redeployment of 3,000 North Korean troops to Russian training grounds near the combat zone, with forecasts predicting their numbers could increase to 12,000.
The parties agreed to enhance the exchange of intelligence and intensify contacts at all levels to develop a strategy to counter escalation. A delegation exchange is also planned to coordinate actions.
In conclusion, Zelenskyy invited South Korea to join the G7 Vilnius Declaration on bilateral security agreements to support Ukraine.
North Korean soldiers in Russia
North Korea has sent its soldiers to Russia to support the war against Ukraine.
According to the Defense Intelligence of the Ministry of Defense, some North Korean troops are already in the Kursk direction. Russian President Vladimir Putin noted that this is related to the "strategic partnership agreement" between Russia and North Korea.
Meanwhile, North Korea claims that sending soldiers to Russia to participate in the war against Ukraine allegedly complies with international law; however, information about troop deployment there has not been officially confirmed.
Earlier reports indicated that North Korean military units were approaching the front line in Ukraine, but military analysts believe they do not belong to the elite units of Kim Jong-un's army.