According to senior officials cited by The New York Times and BBC, the incident reflects a major escalation, with approximately 10,000-11,000 North Korean soldiers now estimated to be in the region, supporting Russia’s efforts to repel Ukrainian forces, who hold about 250 square miles in the area.
A Ukrainian official reported that the engagement involved a small contingent of North Korean soldiers, who fought alongside Russia’s 810 Separate Naval Infantry Brigade. The clash, though limited, was seen as a reconnaissance effort to test Ukrainian defenses, according to The New York Times. Casualties remain unclear, but a U.S. official noted that many North Korean troops were killed. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy addressed the development in his nightly briefing, urging global support to counter what he called a “new chapter of global instability.”
Ukraine’s Defense Minister Rustem Umerov confirmed the clash to South Korean broadcaster KBS, saying it involved a “small group” of North Korean soldiers but not a full-scale engagement. Umerov also stated that more of these troops are expected to enter combat as they complete training. According to Umerov, they are wearing Russian uniforms and are under various Russian commands, with plans for five units of approximately 3,000 soldiers each to be deployed.
Seoul, however, expressed caution about the reports, suggesting that while there was an “incident” involving North Korean troops near the front line, direct combat could not be confirmed. South Korea’s government has voiced its concern, summoning Russia’s ambassador and calling for the “immediate withdrawal” of North Korean forces from Ukraine. South Korea is also considering the direct supply of arms to Ukraine, BBC reported.
Intelligence assessments from the U.S., South Korea, and NATO suggest North Korea’s involvement may be part of a deal for Russian military technology or financial compensation. Western and Ukrainian officials see this as a significant escalation in the two-year-long conflict. Meanwhile, Russian lawmakers are set to vote on a mutual defense treaty with North Korea, a proposal dating back to President Vladimir Putin’s June visit to Pyongyang. If ratified, the treaty would bind Russia and North Korea to aid each other in the event of “aggression,” indicating a growing strategic partnership amid further rising global tensions.
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Source: The New York Times, BBC, IAR, PAP