Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has raised alarms over an increasing North Korean military presence in Russia, suggesting the number of troops could reach 100,000. Speaking in a virtual address to the European Parliament on Tuesday, Zelenskyy stated that approximately 11,000 North Korean soldiers are currently stationed near Ukraine’s borders, a number that may expand significantly.
Kyiv, along with its Western allies, has accused North Korea of providing both military personnel and weaponry to support Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. South Korea’s intelligence agency recently reported that North Korean troops had already been deployed in combat operations against Ukrainian forces.
Earlier this month, Russian President Vladimir Putin ratified a treaty formalizing a strategic partnership with North Korea. The agreement includes provisions for mutual defense, further solidifying ties between Moscow and Pyongyang amid escalating tensions in the region.
Zelenskyy’s comments highlight growing concerns over the deepening collaboration between Russia and North Korea as the war in Ukraine continues into its 1,000th day.
