North Korea Confirms Troop Deployment to Russia for First Time

North Korea has confirmed for the first time the deployment of troops to Russia, framing it as a strategic alliance extension. The Central Military Commission stated that North Koreans participated in military operations in Kursk to assist Russia against Ukraine. Kim Jong-un has presented the troops as national representatives and plans to honor them with a monument in Pyongyang.

In a notable development, North Korea confirmed on Monday for the first time that it has dispatched troops to Russia. This move, according to state media, is part of strengthening its strategic partnership with Moscow. The announcement came through the Korean Central News Agency (KCNA), following a statement from the Central Military Commission of the Workers’ Party.

The military commission articulated that this troop deployment aligns with the spirit and stipulations of their comprehensive strategic partnership treaty. They characterized it as a concrete manifestation of this agreement. Notably, North Korean soldiers reportedly participated in operations labeled as “liberating the Kursk area,” which they claimed thwarted Ukraine’s perceived aggression against Russia.

Furthermore, the statement indicated that the involvement of North Korean forces was directly sanctioned by Kim Jong-un, who assessed that the battlefield situation necessitated invoking Article 4 of their treaty. The North Korean leader effectively directed the deployment and informed Russian authorities accordingly.

According to North Korea, Kim Jong-un described the troops sent to Russia as “representatives of the nation’s honor.” He promised that a monument would be established in Pyongyang to honor their military achievements and that the homeland would pay eternal tributes to those who fell in combat.

This development coincides with Russia’s announcement over the weekend, declaring complete control over the Kursk border area assisted by North Korean forces. This significant military collaboration underscores the growing ties between Pyongyang and Moscow amidst regional tensions.

In summary, North Korea’s confirmation of troop deployment to Russia marks a significant step in its military alliance with Moscow. The engagement was framed as not only a strategic gesture but also a patriotic commitment by Kim Jong-un. This move could reshape regional dynamics, especially in light of Russia’s funding and coordination with North Korean forces in current operations.

Original Source: koreajoongangdaily.joins.com