Putin defends potential North Korean troop deployment

In a bold assertion of Russia’s sovereignty, President Vladimir Putin has defended the potential deployment of North Korean troops to Ukraine, dismissing U.S. claims that 3,000 soldiers have already been dispatched for this purpose. Putin emphasized that it is Russia’s right to act in its own security interests, especially as Ukraine seeks closer ties with NATO.

Highlighting a defense pact with North Korea, Putin suggested that mutual support during times of conflict is not only permitted but expected. He pointed to Article 4 of the treaty, which allows for troop deployment, as a justification for potential military collaboration.

While Putin stopped short of confirming the presence of North Korean soldiers in Ukraine, his statements signal a willingness to enhance military ties with Pyongyang. The Kremlin’s posture underscores its commitment to bolstering defenses in the face of what it perceives as a Western encroachment through NATO’s eastward expansion.

In response to these developments, Japan has expressed serious concern about the implications of North Korean troops operating in Russia, indicating that it is closely monitoring the situation. Meanwhile, Germany has issued a stark warning: the deployment of North Korean forces in Ukraine would represent a significant escalation of the ongoing conflict, raising alarms across Europe.

🚨🇷🇺PUTIN DEFENDS POSSIBLE USE OF NORTH KOREAN TROOPS

Putin stated it is Russia’s sovereign decision whether to deploy North Korean troops, responding to U.S. claims that 3,000 North Korean soldiers were sent for potential deployment in Ukraine.

He emphasized Russia's right to… pic.twitter.com/3fFHTFs9Lp

— Mario Nawfal (@MarioNawfal) October 25, 2024

NEW – Japan says North Korean troops in Russia of 'serious concern't.co/Ao6kvFw6z5

— Insider Paper (@TheInsiderPaper) October 25, 2024

Sources:

• Reuters – Putin defends possible deployment of North Korean troops

• CNN – U.S. claims North Korean soldiers sent to Russia

• BBC News – Japan’s concern over North Korean troops in Russia

• The Guardian – Germany warns against North Korean troops in Ukraine