US discovers North Korea could benefit from sending troops to Ukraine

A recent article published by The New York Times indicates that the potential deployment of North Korean troops to Ukraine could provide Kim Jong-un with an opportunity to request Russian assistance in developing missile and nuclear technology.

According to John Kirby, the Strategic Communications Coordinator for the White House National Security Council, U.S. intelligence has not found evidence of any specific promise from Russia to strengthen the North Korean military. However, analysts suggest that Kim Jong-un is likely seeking Russian support on two main fronts: immediate enhancements to North Korea's military capabilities and long-term strategic guarantees that could bolster the DPRK's ability to counter the United States and its neighbours.

Victor Cha, a professor of government and international relations at Georgetown University and chairman of the Korea office at the Center for Strategic and International Studies in Washington, D.C., emphasized that allegedly sending DPRK troops would provide Kim Jong-un with "leverage to ask Russia for a lot in return."

Officials believe that the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership Treaty between Russia and North Korea has laid the groundwork for sending DPRK soldiers to Ukraine and for other forms of cooperation. The report suggests that North Korea requires assistance to improve its missile capabilities, and Russia could aid Kim Jong-un in enhancing them.

Additionally, Kim could seek support for his nuclear program, including the acquisition of a stealth nuclear submarine capable of launching multiple ballistic missiles that could reach the United States or its allies.

On October 24, reports emerged indicating that the United States had information about the arrival of approximately 3,000 military personnel from North Korea in Russia. 

Earlier, Ukrainian leader Volodymyr Zleneskyy repeatedly claimed North Korean involvement in the Ukraine conflict.

However, NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte said that there is no clear evidence of these developments.

By Tamilla Hasanova