Zelenskyy: North Korea to send up to 50,000 soldiers to Russia

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy stated that North Korea plans to send up to 50,000 soldiers to Russia. He indicated that the number of North Korean soldiers on Russian territory could reach between 30,000 and 50,000. Initially, only hundreds or thousands were involved.

Zelenskyy explained that these troops would not only fight in Russia's war against Ukraine but also study the conflict. The knowledge gained could serve as a resource or threat in future conflicts within North Korea's own region. This assertion comes amid ongoing military cooperation between Russia and North Korea.

This development follows reports that Ukraine has been targeted by at least 24 North Korean ballistic missiles over the past two years. While less common recently, a suspected launch occurred on July 30, marking the first in nearly a year. Additionally, a new bridge between the Russian town of Khasan and Tumangang in North Korea is nearing completion. This structure runs parallel to the existing Friendship Bridge and is expected to allow for more discreet transport of military equipment.

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When it initially involved hundreds, then thousands, they have now decided that between 30,000 and 50,000 North Koreans will be on Russian territory.