Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has warned that Russia may soon deploy 10,000 North Korean troops to bolster its forces in Ukraine. The alarming claim comes amid reports that Moscow and Pyongyang have strengthened military cooperation, raising concerns about the expansion of foreign fighters in the conflict.
Zelenskyy’s statement highlights the growing complexities of the war, as Russia seeks to compensate for battlefield losses. The potential involvement of North Korean soldiers would mark a significant shift, increasing external military support for Moscow beyond the weapons and supplies it has already received from allied states like Iran and Belarus.
Meanwhile, Zelenskyy continues to push his “victory plan” on the global stage, urging international partners to ramp up military aid and accelerate Ukraine’s path to NATO membership. His plan focuses on securing advanced weaponry, enforcing tougher sanctions on Russia, and accelerating post-war reconstruction. Zelenskyy emphasized that time is critical, warning that delays could embolden Russia and its allies to escalate the conflict further.
The prospect of North Korean involvement has raised new challenges for Western nations, who must now decide how to respond if foreign fighters enter the war. Officials in Kyiv have called for swift and decisive action, urging their allies to stay united in their commitment to Ukraine’s victory.
As Russia expands its network of military partners, the situation on the ground remains volatile, underscoring the urgent need for international cooperation to maintain Ukraine’s resistance and prevent further destabilization.