The Pentagon has reported that North Korea has significantly increased its military presence in Russia, sending around 10,000 soldiers to train there—triple the previously estimated figure. This development has sparked concerns over a deeper military alliance between Russia and North Korea, with NATO warning that such deployments could dangerously escalate the ongoing conflict in Ukraine.
Deputy Pentagon Press Secretary Sabrina Singh confirmed that these troops are training in eastern Russia and could soon be deployed closer to the Ukrainian border, specifically in Russia’s Kursk Oblast. Singh expressed worry that the forces might support or even directly engage in combat operations against Ukrainian forces. The U.S. has stated that this increase signals Russian President Vladimir Putin’s “growing desperation” amid reported heavy casualties.
Previously, U.S. National Security Council spokesman John Kirby estimated around 3,000 North Korean soldiers in Russia as of late October, cautioning that they could become legitimate targets if used against Ukraine. NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte criticized the development, seeing it as a clear expansion of the conflict, with potential risks for broader destabilization.
Analysts believe North Korea’s provision of military aid to Russia might come with strategic benefits, likely involving technology transfers, including satellite surveillance systems and submarines, which could strengthen Pyongyang’s military capabilities.
