North Korea boosts support for Russia to include drone operators, Ukraine says

Kyiv — According to Ukrainian intelligence, North Korea is bolstering its support for Russia by deploying a drone unit that could potentially target locations within Ukraine, reports Major General Vadym Skibitskiy, Deputy Head of Ukrainian Defense Intelligence. This development is part of North Korea's growing military cooperation with Russia, which solidified with a NATO-style mutual defense pact two years ago.

The official said that North Korean troops, already numbering 8,500 in Russia, include a drone unit with 400 operators who have gained experience from previous deployments. It is reported that Russia may request an additional 50,000 North Korean troops when President Vladimir Putin meets with Kim Jong Un in September. The influx of North Korean troops has strained Russia's resources, leading them to seek assistance.

Although there are concerns among NATO members, particularly following Trump's announcement to scale down military drills with South Korea, North Korean leader Kim Jong Un has denied plans for a massive troop influx, dismissing such claims as "groundless self-fabricated scenarios." Ukrainian intelligence suggests the new wave of troops will not engage in combat on Ukrainian soil but will bolster Russia's rear positions, enabling Russian forces to launch assaults within Ukraine.

The first deployment of North Korean troops to Russia began in October 2024, with an estimated 10,000 troops suffering significant casualties. North Korea's assistance extends beyond troop deployment, as the country has also provided missile technology, with at least 150 KN 23 or KN 24 ballistic missiles sent to Russia for use in Ukraine.