Reports from U.S. intelligence, other credible intelligence agencies, or major news outlets

U.S. Intelligence: North Korea Sends Up to 12,000 Troops to Russia; Initiative Reportedly Kim Jong-un's with No Benefits Received

Dec 23, 2024, 06:24 PM

Recent reports indicate that North Korea has deployed troops to assist Russia in its ongoing conflict in Ukraine, with U.S. intelligence suggesting that the initiative originated from Kim Jong-un rather than Vladimir Putin. According to sources, North Korea has sent at least 10,000 soldiers, with estimates rising to 12,000. This move is perceived by some Western officials as evidence of Russia's desperation for support. Despite the deployment, North Korea has reportedly not received any material benefits in return for its assistance to Russia. The New York Times and other outlets have confirmed that the idea of sending troops was proposed by North Korea, which Putin accepted promptly.