Ukraine launches first attack on North Korean troops in Kursk region
Ukraine has attacked North Korean troops for the first time since their deployment in the Russian border region, where Ukrainian forces have maintained control since August.
Andriy Kovalenko, head of the Ukrainian Center for Countering Disinformation, confirmed the incident, stating, “The first North Korean troops have already come under fire in the Kursk region,” though he did not provide further details.
North Korea has sent approximately 10,000 troops, including elite special forces, to Russia to bolster its military efforts against Ukraine. NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte has described this deployment as a “significant escalation” in the Kremlin’s ongoing conflict with Kyiv.
Russian forces have been ramping up their offensive in eastern Ukraine, particularly in Kursk, where Ukrainian troops captured key territories during a surprise incursion in August. Kremlin troops have since pushed back against Ukrainian counterattacks near Sudzha, a crucial gas transportation hub located about 20 kilometers (12 miles) from the frontline.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy has criticized Western allies for their failure to provide much-needed military assistance. In his daily address, he expressed frustration over the lack of long-range capabilities, saying, “Instead of providing the much-needed long-range capabilities, America is watching, Britain is watching, Germany is watching. Everyone is just waiting for the North Korean military to start targeting Ukrainians.”
Situation in Kursk
The situation in Kursk is critical, with over 10,000 North Korean troops reportedly in Russia and a “significant number” located in frontline areas, according to South Korea’s defense ministry.
The Pentagon has also acknowledged the presence of at least 10,000 North Korean soldiers in the Kursk region but has not confirmed reports of their involvement in combat.
Ukraine’s intelligence agency has indicated that around 12,000 North Korean troops, including 500 officers and three generals, have already arrived in Russia, with training being conducted at five military bases.
Jeon Ha-kyou, spokesperson for South Korea’s defense ministry, reiterated that while many North Korean troops have moved to the frontline areas, there is currently no information on their engagement in combat. Reports suggesting that as many as 40 North Korean troops may have been killed in battle have not been confirmed.
