Janice R. Andrews
Ukrainian military officials report that North Korean forces have likely withdrawn from Russia’s Kursk region after suffering significant casualties. Colonel Oleksandr Kindratenko, a spokesperson for Ukraine’s Special Operations Forces, stated that North Korean troops have not been observed on the frontlines for nearly three weeks, suggesting their withdrawal was due to heavy losses.
According to Ukrainian officials and Western intelligence, approximately 12,000 North Korean soldiers were deployed to assist Russia in its offensive against Ukraine, with around 4,000 killed or injured. The troops were reportedly stationed in the Kursk region, where Ukraine has recently made strategic advancements, as noted by the Institute for the Study of War (ISW).
Ukrainian presidential adviser Mykhailo Podolyak confirmed the reports, highlighting the impact of North Korea’s involvement in the conflict. Meanwhile, Russia claims to have recaptured the region, despite Ukraine’s progress.
In a related development, Ukraine received a significant boost in its defense capabilities with a $1.23 billion military aid package from Sweden. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy expressed gratitude for the support, emphasizing its role in strengthening Ukraine’s long-range capabilities and domestic weapons production.
The withdrawal of North Korean troops marks a notable shift in the conflict, underscoring the high human cost of their involvement. As Ukraine continues to counter Russian advances, international support remains crucial in bolstering its defense efforts.
