In a press conference in Rome, US Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin stated that there is evidence of North Korean troops in Russia, known as the Democratic People's Republic of Korea. This comes after Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy cited intelligence suggesting the presence of up to 12,000 North Korean troops in Russia, who would support Russian forces in the ongoing conflict with Ukraine. South Korean lawmakers have also reported that North Korea has recently sent 3,000 troops to Russia, doubling previous estimates. This revelation raises concerns about the potential involvement of North Korea in the Ukraine crisis and adds further tension to the already volatile situation.
North Korea's Involvement in Russia-Ukraine Conflict
US Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin has stated that there is evidence of North Korean troops in Russia, following reports from Ukrainian officials and South Korean lawmakers. This revelation has raised concerns about the potential involvement of North Korea in the Ukraine crisis.
Background
North Korea has a long history of supporting Russia. In the 1950s and 1960s, the two countries signed a series of agreements on military cooperation. North Korea also provided military assistance to Russia during the Russo-Japanese War of 1904-1905 and the Soviet-Afghan War of 1979-1989.
In recent years, relations between North Korea and Russia have become closer. The two countries have signed a series of new agreements on economic cooperation, and North Korean leader Kim Jong-un has met with Russian President Vladimir Putin on multiple occasions.
Current Situation
According to Ukrainian intelligence, North Korea has sent up to 12,000 troops to Russia. These troops are reportedly being used to support Russian forces in the ongoing conflict with Ukraine. South Korean lawmakers have also reported that North Korea has recently sent 3,000 troops to Russia, doubling previous estimates.
The US has confirmed the presence of North Korean troops in Russia. Defense Secretary Austin stated that there is evidence of North Korean troops in the country, but he did not provide any details.
Concerns
The presence of North Korean troops in Russia raises concerns about the potential involvement of North Korea in the Ukraine crisis. North Korea is a nuclear-armed state, and its involvement could escalate the conflict and lead to a wider war.
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