North Korea Sending 12,000 Troops, Including Special Forces, to Aid Russia in Ukraine: South Korea

Oct 18, 2024, 09:04 AM

On October 18, 2024, South Korean intelligence reported that North Korea has decided to dispatch 12,000 soldiers, including special operation forces, to support Russia in its war against Ukraine. This development is considered a 'grave security threat' by South Korea's Defense Ministry. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky confirmed that North Korea is preparing 10,000 soldiers to join Russia's invasion, warning that 'this is the first step to a world war.' South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol has been briefed on the matter as concerns grow over the expanding scope of the Ukraine conflict. Prior reports indicated that North Korea has supplied ammunition and missiles to Russia, and the deployment of troops signifies a significant escalation. News outlets such as Yonhap News, the Associated Press, and NK News have highlighted these developments, with analysts noting the potential implications for global security. South Korea is closely monitoring the situation and may respond by providing direct military aid to Ukraine if North Korean troops are sent to the front lines.