Could Putin use North Korean troops against Ukraine?
Nov 8, 2024
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James Waterhouse, BBC's Ukraine correspondent based in Kyiv, and Jean Mackenzie, BBC's Seoul correspondent, dive into the surprising deployment of North Korean troops to Russia amid the Ukraine conflict. They explore how this alliance could shift military dynamics and the motivations behind North Korea's involvement. The discussion also examines historical ties between the two nations and the implications for global geopolitics. Can North Korea's entry into this war escalate tensions and redefine the battle lines? Tune in for some eye-opening insights!
The deployment of North Korean troops in Russia signals a historic military alliance that may significantly alter the dynamics of the Ukraine conflict.
North Korea's involvement not only offers its troops combat experience but also financial gains and potential access to advanced military technology from Russia.
Deep dives
North Korean Troops in Russia
The deployment of North Korean troops to Russia represents a significant escalation in military cooperation between the two countries. Recent estimates suggest that between 3,000 to 12,000 North Korean soldiers have been sent to the Kursk region, acting as reinforcements for Russia's ongoing war in Ukraine. This marked the first instance in over a century that Russia has welcomed foreign military forces within its borders, underscoring the depth of its alliance with North Korea. Analysts recognize that this troop presence could alter the dynamics of the conflict, with geopolitical implications extending beyond the immediate battlefield.
Military Cooperation and Consequences
The collaboration between North Korea and Russia has evolved significantly, illustrated by a mutual defense pact signed during North Korean leader Kim Jong-un's recent visit to Moscow. While North Korea's contributions have included supplying munitions, the commitment of troop deployments is viewed as a major step in solidifying their alliance. The South Korean intelligence community has raised concerns about the nature of North Korean soldiers and their potential combat effectiveness, as many lack experience outside their homeland. Additionally, the presence of these troops raises numerous questions regarding their operational integration within the Russian military structure, especially given their limited language skills and training backgrounds.
Strategic Gains for North Korea
North Korea stands to gain significant advantages from this military partnership with Russia, with reports indicating that the troops may receive valuable combat experience. Financially, Russia is believed to be compensating North Korea for troop deployment, potentially amounting to substantial revenue for the isolated state. Moreover, the partnership could allow North Korea access to advanced military technology, crucial for enhancing its own defense capabilities and nuclear program. These developments are particularly alarming for South Korea, which fears that any technological advancements gained by North Korea could tip the balance of power in a highly volatile regional landscape.
Thousands of North Korean troops have been sent to Russia to support their war in Ukraine. The US government says thousands of troops are now in the Kursk region – right next to the Ukrainian frontline. Can North Korean soldiers fighting for Russia change the dynamics of the war in Ukraine? And how does North Korea benefit from this arrangement?
Katya Adler speaks to the BBC’s Ukraine correspondent James Waterhouse and Seoul correspondent Jean Mackenzie about whether North Korea's entry into the Ukraine war will turn it into a truly global conflict.
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Producers: Alice Aylett Roberts and Mariana Hernández Carrillo
Sound engineers: Phil Bull and Mike Regaard
Assistant editor: Sergi Forcada Freixas
Senior news editor: Sara Wadeson
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