Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has stated that up to 50,000 North Korean troops are expected to be deployed on Russian soil to support Moscow in its ongoing conflict with Ukraine. This figure, announced on Saturday via Zelensky’s X (formerly Twitter) account, represents an increase from his earlier estimate in July, when he suggested about 30,000 soldiers might be sent by Pyongyang.
Zelensky did not provide details on how this intelligence was obtained but emphasized North Korea’s growing involvement alongside Russia. He noted that Kyiv has discovered North Korean missiles within Ukrainian territory, although he withheld specifics regarding the locations. According to Zelensky, North Korea is gaining combat experience through its collaboration with Russia and receiving various forms of military support and licenses from its ally.
Highlighting Ukraine’s urgent operational needs, Zelensky appealed to South Korea for greater assistance, particularly in the area of air defense systems where Ukraine faces significant shortages. He expressed readiness to engage in negotiations on a drone deal and other forms of military cooperation, adding that Ukrainian diplomats are actively communicating with Seoul to advance potential agreements.
The deepening military ties between Russia and North Korea follow a comprehensive strategic partnership treaty signed in June 2024 during Russian President Vladimir Putin’s visit to Pyongyang. The pact includes clauses for mutual assistance in case either side faces external aggression. North Korea has framed the deployment of its troops to Russia as fulfilling obligations to a treaty partner.
Reports indicate that approximately 14,000 North Korean soldiers have already been sent to Russia’s Kursk Region this year, reinforcing Russian forces that have been involved in repelling significant Ukrainian incursions. Ukrainian military intelligence sources recently told news agencies that a North Korean missile unit has begun deploying in western Russia, equipped with up to 120 ballistic missiles and multiple launchers, potentially increasing the capability to strike Ukrainian targets.
Ukraine’s shortage of advanced air defense technology has been exploited by Russia, which has escalated its use of ballistic missiles—weaponry that poses a particular challenge for interception. Independent and Ukrainian assessments attribute the supply of millions of artillery and mortar rounds, as well as ballistic missiles, long-range artillery, and multiple-launch rocket systems, to North Korea.
Requests for comment from the North Korean Embassy in Russia and South Korea’s Foreign Ministry were not immediately answered. The evolving military and strategic support from North Korea to Russia adds a complex dimension to the conflict in Ukraine, raising international concern over the expanding scale of foreign involvement.