South Korea’s National Intelligence Service (NIS) has issued a stark warning that North Korea may deploy troops to support Russia in the ongoing conflict in Ukraine as early as July or August. This development comes amid reports of North Korea supplying Russia with arms and ammunition.
According to NIS Director Ji Jae-ryeol, who briefed lawmakers, the troop deployment is expected to involve several thousand North Korean soldiers. The exact number and timing of the deployment remain uncertain, but the NIS believes it will likely occur in the coming months.
The NIS report suggests that North Korea’s troop deployment would be a significant escalation of its involvement in the conflict, marking a shift from its current role as a supplier of arms and ammunition to Russia. This move would also underscore the deepening military cooperation between North Korea and Russia.
In recent months, there have been reports of North Korea supplying Russia with artillery shells and other military equipment. The United States and South Korea have condemned these shipments, citing violations of UN Security Council resolutions.
The potential deployment of North Korean troops to Ukraine would likely have significant implications for the conflict and the global community. It would also raise concerns about the humanitarian impact on civilians in Ukraine and the potential for further destabilization in the region.
The NIS’s warning comes as the conflict in Ukraine continues to rage on, with both sides suffering heavy losses. The international community remains closely divided over the conflict, with some countries providing military support to Ukraine and others backing Russia.
As the situation continues to unfold, the possibility of North Korean troops being deployed to Ukraine will likely remain a pressing concern for global leaders and policymakers.
South Korean lawmakers expressed deep concern over the NIS report, with some calling for increased vigilance and preparedness in the face of this potential threat. The international community will be watching closely for any developments in this situation, given the complex geopolitical implications.
