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North Korean soldiers go AWOL near Ukrainian border, reports Kyiv Post

16.10.2024 12:25
Accounts from Kyiv Post indicate that 18 North Korean soldiers are missing after abandoning their posts near the Ukrainian border. President Zelensky warns that North Korea is effectively participating in Russia's war against Ukraine.
According to recent reports, North Korean troops have been stationed near Ukraine.
According to recent reports, North Korean troops have been stationed near Ukraine.Landsat/Copernicus; Google Earth

Referencing intelligence sources, the news outlet reports that the soldiers deserted their positions along the border between Russia’s Bryansk and Kursk regions, about 7 km from the Ukrainian border.

This situation raises concerns about the strengthening alliance between Russia and North Korea, particularly regarding possible troop deployments in Russian-occupied areas.

Russian forces are actively searching for them, although local commanders are attempting to cover up the incident.

This development happened shortly after President Putin proposed ratifying a strategic partnership treaty with North Korea.

Zelenskyy warns of growing Russia-North Korea alliance

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy also commented on reports that six North Korean officers were killed in a missile strike near Donetsk, which claimed the lives of up to 20 occupation troops.

Concerns are growing that, despite language barriers, thousands of North Korean soldiers may eventually be deployed in Russian-occupied Ukrainian territories.

"We are witnessing an increasing alliance between Russia and regimes like North Korea. This is no longer just about transferring weapons. It is now also about transferring people," warned the Ukrainian president in a video shared on social media.

Russia plans to station over 10,000 North Korean soldiers near Ukraine's border

According to the latest information from Kyiv Post, referencing Ukrainian intelligence, Russia is planning to deploy over 10,000 North Korean soldiers in the Far East.

These troops will be stationed near Ukraine’s border, allowing Russia to rotate its forces and relieve its personnel.

Zelensky unveils victory plan in Parliament and highlights North Korea's role in the war

On October 16, President Volodymyr Zelensky unveiled a Victory Plan in the Ukrainian Parliament, calling for immediate NATO membership for Ukraine. He also highlighted North Korea's involvement as a de facto participant in Russia's war against Ukraine.

Reuters also notes that, as stated by the Ukrainian leader, North Korea is de facto a participant in Russia's war against Ukraine, siding with Moscow.

Source: Kyiv Post/Euromaidan Press

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