Introduction

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has revealed alarming reports regarding North Korean troops deployed in the Kursk region of Russia, highlighting that they are suffering substantial battlefield losses without adequate protection.

Significant Losses

During a recent nightly video address, Zelenskyy described the dire situation, emphasizing that Russian forces are sending these soldiers into combat with little support, putting their lives at serious risk.

“The losses are significant, very significant. It’s evident that neither the Russian military nor the North Korean commanders are interested in ensuring the safety and survival of their troops,” Zelenskyy stated.

North Korean Soldiers in Distress

He further noted that some North Korean soldiers, in a desperate attempt to avoid capture, have resorted to extreme measures—including reported executions at the hands of their own forces.

Troop Deployment

Recent intelligence suggests there are approximately 12,000 North Korean troops stationed in the Kursk region, which shares a border with Ukraine. This deployment followed Ukraine's successful incursion into occupied territories in August that has intensified the ongoing conflict.

Zelenskyy mentioned that over 3,000 North Korean soldiers have already been killed or injured in the conflict, with some wounded soldiers being captured but tragically unable to receive life-saving medical attention.

Appeal to China

Zelenskyy asserted that the lives of North Koreans should not be lost in battles far from their homeland. He called upon neighboring countries, particularly China, to exert influence over North Korea and prevent the escalation of this conflict.

“If China is sincere in its claim that the war should not expand, it needs to apply pressure on Pyongyang,” he urged.

White House Confirmation

Adding to the grim assessment, White House spokesperson John Kirby confirmed the significant casualties among North Korean forces during the past week alone, with reports indicating that around 1,000 troops were killed or injured. He characterized the engagement of these North Korean soldiers as 'hopeless assaults' against Ukrainian defenses.

Kirby expressed that both Russian and North Korean military leaders appear to view these soldiers as expendable assets, sending them into high-risk offensives without adequate support.

Conclusion

As the situation continues to unfold in Ukraine, there is growing concern over the involvement of North Korean forces and the stated lack of care for their wellbeing. Meanwhile, discussions in Washington indicate that U.S. President Joe Biden is expected to approve another security assistance package for Ukraine in the near future, as Western nations rally to support Kyiv against the ongoing challenges posed by Russia’s invasion.

Stay tuned for more updates on this developing story and the international implications of North Korea's involvement in this conflict!