The collaboration between North Korea and Russia in the Ukraine conflict has taken on a more strategic dimension.
While the presence of North Korean troops supporting Russian forces is known, a critical detail has emerged: the leadership of these troops.
Three North Korean generals are commanding operations within Russia, maintaining a shroud of secrecy around their activities, according to Ziare.
Andri Cerniak, spokesperson for Ukraine’s Defense Intelligence, disclosed this development.
He explained that these generals are kept hidden and operate in isolated camps where the North Korean troops are trained and housed. The secrecy surrounding their activities underscores the sensitivity of their mission.
A Carefully Guarded Operation
The generals and their troops are reportedly shielded from outside scrutiny, suggesting an effort by both Moscow and Pyongyang to minimize international backlash.
The soldiers, currently numbering around 2,000 in active combat units, are part of a larger force of approximately 9,000 stationed in Russia. These troops are integrated into Russian divisions, including a marine brigade and an airborne unit.
Cerniak emphasized that these forces are not merely auxiliary.
"They’re directly contributing to Russian combat operations," he stated.
Their presence, however, is tightly controlled to ensure operational security and avoid revealing too much about their activities.
This collaboration extends beyond manpower. North Korea has also supplied Russia with significant quantities of military equipment.
Over 100 artillery systems, including the powerful M-1989 Koksan guns, have been transferred. Short-range ballistic missiles, such as the KN-23 and KN-24, have further bolstered Russian capabilities.
The involvement of North Korean military leaders adds a layer of sophistication to this partnership. Analysts suggest that their presence could indicate a strategic alliance aimed at leveraging North Korea’s expertise in certain military tactics.
