Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has made a striking accusation, claiming that North Korea is not only supplying weapons but also sending soldiers to assist Russia in its ongoing war against Ukraine. In his Sunday night video address, Volodymyr Zelenskyy pointed to a growing alliance between Russia and authoritarian regimes like North Korea, emphasizing that the support now extends beyond arms transfers. “This is no longer just about transferring weapons. It is actually about transferring people from North Korea to the occupying military forces,” he stated.
Volodymyr Zelenskyy urged Ukraine’s allies to adapt their strategies in response to Russia’s deepening alliances. He renewed his call for increased military support, especially long-range missiles, which Ukraine seeks to strike military targets deep within Russia and limit its war capabilities. The Ukrainian president expressed concern that a failure to act now could lead to a broader conflict. “The front line needs more support,” Volodymyr Zelenskyy said, highlighting that delivering advanced weaponry is critical not only to pressure Russia but also to prevent a larger war.
His calls for additional long-range capabilities have so far been met with resistance from some Western allies, though discussions continue. Volodymyr Zelenskyy stressed that real peace could only be achieved through strength, adding that the coming week would be dedicated to working with Ukraine’s partners to enhance this strength. He warned that if decisive action is not taken, the war could escalate beyond its current scope.
This comes as Western leaders, including U.S. President Joe Biden, are expected to meet in Germany to discuss the situation in Ukraine. Biden had initially postponed his trip due to Hurricane Milton, but he is expected to travel to Germany this week with the Ukraine war high on the agenda.
The claims of North Korea’s involvement have gained traction following remarks from South Korea’s Minister of National Defense, Kim Yong-hyun. Last week, he said there was a “high possibility” that North Korea had dispatched soldiers to Russia, and he confirmed reports of North Korean officers being killed in Ukrainian attacks on Russian-occupied territory.
The deepening relations between Russia and North Korea have been evident since the war began in February 2022. North Korean leader Kim Jong Un visited Russia in September 2023, where he held talks with President Vladimir Putin and toured military bases. In turn, Vladimir Putin visited Pyongyang in June 2023, solidifying North Korea’s support for Russia’s war efforts.
