Putin’s Communication with Kim Suggests Potential Troop Deployments to Ukraine

Putin sent a significant letter to Kim Jong-un through Sergei Shoigu, indicating continued North Korea-Russia trade during Ukraine cease-fire talks. Analysts suggest the potential for a third North Korean troop deployment to Ukraine as both leaders focus on security cooperation and economic benefits. Discussions also included revitalizing North Korea’s tourism sector to boost its economy.

Russian President Vladimir Putin recently sent an “important personal letter” to North Korean leader Kim Jong-un via his close aide, Sergei Shoigu. This significant communication, as reported by North Korean state-run media, underscores that trade between North Korea and Russia will persist even amid ongoing negotiations regarding the Ukraine conflict. Analysts posit that Putin aims to bolster his negotiating stance with Western powers by potentially deploying more North Korean troops in Ukraine, while Kim seeks security assurances and economic benefits.

During his visit to North Korea, Secretary Shoigu relayed greetings from President Putin, and Kim expressed his gratitude and unyielding support for Russia’s efforts to protect its sovereignty and security interests. Their discussions centered around mutual security concerns and enhancing cooperation in multiple fields, implying a possible third troop deployment of North Koreans to Ukraine.

Experts speculate that Shoigu’s discussions regarding security exchanges might lead to a third deployment of North Korean soldiers, following previous deployments of 11,000 troops in December and 3,000 earlier this year. The visit may also signal a strategic choice by Putin to utilize North Korean forces in the Kursk region as peace negotiations progressed, as the region saw a resurgence of Russian initiative following troop deployments last year.

Research fellow Yang Wook noted that Shoigu’s North Korean visit signifies that North Korea, although not an official participant in the conflict, will provide Russia with a tactical advantage amidst cease-fire discussions. Furthermore, Kim and Shoigu reaffirmed their commitment to fully implementing the North Korea-Russia Comprehensive Strategic Partnership.

Shoigu indicated prior to his trip that the primary aim would be to execute prior agreements with North Korea, potentially alleviating Kim Jong-un’s concerns regarding military casualties, particularly in light of recent reports estimating that around 4,000 North Korean troops suffered casualties on the Kursk front. Additionally, discussions about enhancing other areas of cooperation may hint at reviving North Korea’s tourism industry, which aims to stimulate foreign currency inflows diminished by sanctions and the COVID-19 pandemic.

In conclusion, Putin’s correspondence to Kim through Shoigu highlights ongoing collaborations between North Korea and Russia amid conflict. There is a clear indication that troop deployments may continue, supporting Russia’s strategic maneuvers in Ukraine. Furthermore, beyond military cooperation, initiatives to revitalize North Korea’s tourism industry signal a multifaceted approach to enhancing economic stability. These developments will likely shape the geopolitical landscape in the region further.

Original Source: koreajoongangdaily.joins.com