North Korea has reportedly sent around 10,000 troops to Russia to assist in military operations against Ukraine. This troop deployment coincides with the visit of North Korean Foreign Minister Choe Son Hui to Moscow, where she met with Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov.
The Pentagon's announcement of this military support has raised concerns among Western leaders, who view it as a significant escalation in the conflict and a potential shift in the balance of power in the Indo-Pacific region.
South Korean intelligence suggests that discussions between North Korea and Russia may involve additional troop deployments and terms of military cooperation. There are concerns that Russia may offer advanced military technology to North Korea in exchange for its military assistance, which could enhance North Korea's nuclear weapons and missile capabilities.
Choe emphasized the strategic partnership between North Korea and Russia during her meeting with Lavrov, framing Russia's military efforts as a defense of its sovereign rights and security interests. Both countries have been vague in their responses to allegations regarding the North Korean troop presence in Russia, maintaining that their military cooperation is in accordance with international law.
The United States and its allies have accused North Korea of supplying Russia with military equipment for its operations in Ukraine. South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol has indicated the possibility of supplying weapons to Ukraine in response to the deployment of North Korean troops to Russia. South Korea is preparing countermeasures depending on the level of military cooperation between North Korea and Russia.
Russia has intensified its military operations in Ukraine, launching missile and drone attacks. The conflict in Ukraine and North Korea's military support for Russia have implications for international security and the balance of power in the region.