Zelenskyy says 50,000 North Korean troops will help Russia in war

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has raised his estimate, predicting that between 30,000 and 50,000 North Korean soldiers could be deployed to fight alongside Russian forces in Ukraine. This figure is an increase from his previous estimate of 30,000 in July. Zelenskyy shared this projection on X, formerly Twitter, on Saturday, though he did not detail the source of his information. He also stated that Ukraine has found North Korean missiles on its territory.

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A decision has been made for 30,000 to 50,000 North Koreans to be deployed on the territory of Russia.

"It is absolutely clear that North Korea will continue to build its experience in modern warfare, receive licenses from Russia, and receive all kinds of military tools from them," Zelenskyy commented, highlighting the deepening military ties between Pyongyang and Moscow. He also appealed to South Korea for support, particularly in air defense systems, an area where Ukraine faces significant shortages. "We would very much like to receive support from South Korea in an area where we have a shortage," he said, indicating a readiness to collaborate on defense technologies and potentially a "Drone Deal."

North Korea and Russia have strengthened their strategic partnership, notably with a comprehensive treaty signed in June 2024 during Russian President Vladimir Putin's visit to Pyongyang. This pact includes mutual assistance provisions in case of external aggression. Previously, North Korea reportedly sent an estimated 14,000 soldiers to Russia's Kursk Region in 2024 to help repel Ukrainian forces. Intelligence officials also indicated that a North Korean missile unit began deploying to western Russia, potentially equipped with ballistic missiles and launchers for strikes against Ukraine.

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It is absolutely clear that North Korea will continue to build its experience in modern warfare, receive licenses from Russia, and receive all kinds of military tools from them.

Ukraine is facing a critical shortage of advanced air defense systems, a vulnerability Russia has exploited by increasing its use of ballistic missiles, which are notoriously difficult to intercept. According to Ukrainian and independent assessments, North Korea has supplied Russia with millions of artillery and mortar rounds, ballistic missiles, and rocket systems. This ongoing support underscores the complex geopolitical landscape and the expanding military cooperation between the two nations.

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We would very much like to receive support from South Korea in an area where we have a shortage.