Thanks thousands of North Korean soldiers The Russian Federation was able to swell its ranks and thus intensify attacks on several fronts at the same time. Support from North Korea made it happen Moscow did not have to withdraw its units from the east Ukrainywhich is still one of the occupiers' priorities.
Although the Russians have retaken some of the territory of the Kursk Oblast, which the Ukrainians attacked several months ago, and continue to carry out strikes against Ukrainian soldier positions, according to US officials, Moscow has not yet launched a major attack in the region. Kyiv expects such an attack in the coming days.
War in Ukraine. North Korean soldiers in Kursk are a 'major escalation'
The New York Times publication emphasized that North Korean soldiers undergo military exercises with Russian volunteers in the West Kurska. It goes on to say that in the assessment of both Ukrainian and Western officials, the arrival of forces from North Korea constitutes a “serious escalation after more than two years of war.”
Washington reported that Russia sent at least 10,000 to fight in the Kursk Oblast. North Korean soldiers. Volunteers from Kim Jong Un's country are expected to wear Russian uniforms, according to U.S. defense officials. In addition, they have been equipped by Moscow, but will probably fight as part of separate units.
Soldiers North Korea they were to receive, among others, machine guns, sniper guns and anti-tank missiles. “Russia trained them in artillery fire, basic infantry tactics and clearing trenches,” the American daily emphasizes, adding that the training may suggest that at least some North Korean forces will be engaged in frontline fighting.
North Korean soldiers in Russia. More units may arrive, analyst assesses
Deputy press secretary Pentagon Sabrina Singh rated that United States “fully expect that North Korean soldiers may be engaged in combat.” The American administration emphasizes that it is not sure what restrictions have been imposed by Kim Jong Un's government on the use of its soldiers on the front.
The publication noted that although North Korea has a large army, unlike the Russian Federation it has not participated in land combat for many years. “It is unclear whether the North Korean government will allow its forces to conduct continuous operations in Ukraine or whether they are intended only for a counteroffensive in the Kursk Oblast,” it added.
An analyst from the Institute for the Study of War (ISW) George Barros mentioned that it is not known whether North Korea will send additional forces to Russia. – It will probably not be a one-time transport of 10,000. soldiers. It's more likely to be a way to regularly collect thousands, perhaps even 15 thousand. soldiers per month – said the expert.
Source: “New York Times”