Putin says North Korean ‘friends’ helped Russia push Ukraine out of Kursk

North Korean Forces Celebrate Victory in Kursk Region Battle

In a surprising turn of events, North Korean authorities have confirmed their involvement in the recent conflict in Russia’s Kursk region, where they fought against Ukrainian troops. This marks the first time that North Korea has publicly acknowledged their military engagement in the region. State media from North Korea described their soldiers as “heroic” and claimed victory in the battle.

Russian President Vladimir Putin also commended the North Korean troops for their efforts in the conflict, stating that they fought with honor and valor. He praised them for their contributions to the operation to expel Ukrainian forces from Kursk, hailing them as “Korean friends” who fought alongside Russian soldiers.

The fighting in Kursk erupted after Ukrainian forces launched a surprise offensive in August 2024, marking the largest Ukrainian operation on Russian soil since Moscow’s invasion of Ukraine in 2022. The North Korean Central Military Commission confirmed their participation in the conflict, lauding their troops for their heroic feats in repulsing the Ukrainian forces.

Russian commander Valery Gerasimov announced that Kursk had been fully liberated after months of intense battles, crediting the North Korean units for their significant assistance. Estimates suggest that at least 10,000 North Korean troops were involved in the fighting, displaying high fighting spirit and military prowess.

North Korean leader Kim Jong Un hailed the fighters in Kursk as heroes who fought for justice. He announced plans to erect a monument in Pyongyang to honor the Kursk contingent. Kim emphasized the importance of honoring the soldiers who gave their lives in defense of their homeland.

Despite their valor, North Korean units in Kursk suffered casualties during the conflict. Reports from British intelligence suggest that approximately 5,000 North Korean troops were killed or wounded, with a third of them likely to have been killed in action. Ukrainian and South Korean sources also estimate similar casualty numbers for the North Korean forces.

The involvement of North Korean troops in the conflict in Kursk has shed light on their military capabilities and their willingness to support allies in times of need. The bravery and sacrifice of these soldiers will not be forgotten, as they are recognized for their role in the battle for freedom and sovereignty.