North Korean leader Kim Jong Un has reaffirmed his support for Russia's war against Ukraine, vowing to strengthen his nuclear arsenal in response to deepening military ties between the United States, Japan, and South Korea.
This development was reported by Yonhap News on February 8.
“The army and people of [North Korea] will unwaveringly support and encourage the just cause of the Russian army and people in defending their sovereignty, security, and territorial integrity, in line with the spirit of the comprehensive strategic partnership agreement between [North Korea] and Russia,” Kim stated, according to North Korea’s state media KCNA.
Western leaders and Ukrainian officials have reported that since last fall, North Korea has deployed approximately 11,000 soldiers to fight alongside Russian forces, primarily in Russia’s Kursk region.
However, the exact status of these troops remains unclear.
Some intelligence sources suggest that many North Korean units have been withdrawn from the front lines after suffering heavy losses in battles against Ukrainian forces.
Meanwhile, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy warned on February 7 that "Russia’s cooperation with North Korea will continue to expand."
Additionally, reports indicate that since late December, ballistic missiles launched by Russian forces at Ukraine have displayed significantly improved accuracy, now striking their intended targets within a 50 to 100-meter range, according to two senior Ukrainian sources.
