Secretary of Defense Lloyd J. Austin III confirmed on Wednesday that North Korea has dispatched troops to Russia to participate in the conflict in Ukraine, marking a significant shift in Moscow's military strategy. Austin described the involvement of North Korean forces as a “very serious” escalation that could have implications in both Europe and Asia.
During a press briefing at a military base in Italy, Austin questioned the specifics of North Korea’s military activities, stating, “What exactly are they doing? Left to be seen.” He did not provide details regarding the number of troops currently in Russia or those expected to arrive.
American intelligence officials are reportedly preparing to release a substantial amount of intelligence, including satellite imagery, showing troop ships traveling from North Korea to training sites in Vladivostok and other locations in northern Russia. As of now, no North Korean troops have reached Ukraine, according to the intelligence community.
Reports over the past two weeks, largely fueled by Ukrainian and South Korean intelligence, suggest that up to 12,000 North Korean troops are undergoing training to fight alongside Russian forces. U.S. officials estimate that approximately 2,500 North Korean soldiers have already been sent, but there is no estimate on the potential number of additional troops or their operational effectiveness in unfamiliar territory.
The Kremlin has not issued any immediate response, and it has previously denied reports concerning North Korean troop involvement. However, experts on Russia and North Korea have characterized this development as a pivotal moment in the ongoing conflict.
In light of significant casualties reported in Russia, which have exceeded 600,000 killed or wounded, analysts suggest that President Vladimir Putin is resorting to mercenary forces from North Korea. For North Korean leader Kim Jong-un, the war in Ukraine represents an opportunity to escape geopolitical isolation, as North Korea is now able to leverage its military assets for support from a major power.
Experts believe Kim's long-term objective may include enhancing the capabilities of his intercontinental ballistic missiles and demonstrating that his nuclear arsenal could potentially target American cities. Victor Cha, a North Korea specialist, noted that this development signifies a new phase in the relationship between the two nations, stating, “We are in a whole different era if North Korean soldiers are dying for Putin.”
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky commented on the situation, suggesting that North Korea's involvement reflects Russia's reluctance to mobilize its own citizens amid growing domestic discontent. Zelensky remarked, “This indicates that the consequences of this war are already impacting Russian society.”