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11,000 North Korean Soldiers Training in Russia.. Preparing to Fight in Ukraine
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The appearance of North Korean fighters in the Ukrainian conflict indicates a dangerous escalation in the war, which could complicate diplomatic efforts to end the conflict
Ukrainian authorities have revealed a controversial video allegedly showing dozens of North Korean recruits receiving Russian military uniforms and equipment, preparing to join Russian forces in the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. This development opens a new chapter in the war that has been going on for more than two and a half years, with another country entering the battlefield.
The Ukrainian "Center for Strategic Communications and Information Security," operating under the supervision of the Ministry of Culture and Information, reported that it has verified the authenticity of the video. The footage shows soldiers presumed to be North Koreans lining up to receive bags, clothes, and other equipment from Russian soldiers.
Igor Solovai, head of the center, stated: "We obtained this video from our own sources, and we cannot provide additional confirmation from the sources that provided it to us due to security concerns."
He added: "The video clearly shows North Korean citizens receiving Russian military uniforms under the supervision of the Russian army. For Ukraine, this video is important because it's the first visual evidence showing North Korea's participation in the war alongside Russia, and now not just with weapons and shells but also with personnel."
The center mentions that the footage was filmed by a Russian soldier in recent days, without specifying the location of the filming. This revelation comes after statements by the head of Ukrainian military intelligence, Kyrylo Budanov, in local media, indicating that about 11,000 North Korean infantry are currently training in eastern Russia.
This development raises fears of escalating the conflict and complicating diplomatic efforts to end it. It also points to a shift in international alliances, which could lead to increased diplomatic isolation for Russia. North Korea's intervention in the conflict could escalate global tensions and increase fears of the war expanding beyond Ukraine's borders.
Levant-Agencies
