Is North Korea's Kim Justifying Participation in Russia's War Against Ukraine?
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Synopsis
North Korean leader Kim Jong-un has declared the deployment of troops to Russia to support its war against Ukraine as justified. He emphasizes this action as a sovereign right. Amidst escalating tensions, Kim's remarks highlight North Korea's military alliances and ambitions. Could this signify a new chapter in global military dynamics?
Key Takeaways
- North Korea's troop deployment to Russia is framed as justified by Kim Jong-un.
- Mutual defense treaty with Russia cited as a basis for military action.
- North Korea acknowledges sending 15,000 soldiers to support Russia.
- Concerns grow over potential escalation in international tensions.
- Kim labels North Korean troops as 'heroes' in the conflict.
Seoul, May 10 (NationPress) North Korea's supreme leader Kim Jong-un has asserted that the country's troop deployment to Russia in support of its military campaign against Ukraine is justified. He framed this action as an exercise of North Korea's sovereign rights, according to reports from Pyongyang's state media on Saturday.
During his visit to the Russian Embassy in Pyongyang the day prior, commemorating the 80th anniversary of the Soviet Union's victory over Nazi Germany in World War II, known as Victory Day, Kim expressed these views. The information was relayed by Yonhap, citing the state-run Korean Central News Agency (KCNA).
Referring to a mutual defense agreement established with Russia last year, Kim stated that he had authorized the dispatch of North Korean troops to Russia to 'liberate' the Kursk front-line region, emphasizing his commitment to uphold the treaty.
Kim remarked, 'Our engagement in this conflict is justified, and falls under the purview of exercising our sovereign rights.' He referred to the North's soldiers involved in the combat against Ukraine as 'heroes.'
Last month marked North Korea's first acknowledgment of sending troops to support Russia against Ukraine. Reports from Seoul's intelligence services indicate that approximately 15,000 soldiers have been deployed, with an estimated 4,700 casualties, including around 600 fatalities.
Claiming that Ukraine has encroached upon Russian territory, Kim expressed his unwillingness to hesitate in deploying North Korean military forces should the United States and its allies attempt another offensive against Russia.
He stated, 'If we ignore the maneuvers of the Ukrainian puppet forces to launch military actions against a nuclear power's territory, their audacity will only grow. Consequently, the military in Seoul, acting as a top-tier puppet of the US, will also escalate its reckless provocations.'
Russia commemorated the 80th anniversary of Victory Day with a military parade on Friday, which was attended by various foreign leaders, including Chinese President Xi Jinping. Although Kim was anticipated to be present at the celebrations, he did not travel to Moscow, likely due to security and logistical issues.
Point of View
It's crucial to approach Kim Jong-un's statements with a balanced perspective. While North Korea's assertions may resonate with its military strategy, the broader implications on international relations and security must be considered. The world is watching closely as these developments unfold.
NationPress
21/05/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What did Kim Jong-un say about North Korea's troops in Russia?
Kim Jong-un stated that the deployment of North Korean troops to Russia in support of its war against Ukraine is justified and an exercise of the country's sovereign rights.
How many troops has North Korea sent to Russia?
Reports indicate that North Korea has deployed approximately 15,000 soldiers to Russia.
What is the historical context of Kim's remarks?
Kim made his remarks during a ceremony marking the 80th anniversary of the Soviet Union's victory over Nazi Germany, highlighting North Korea's military alliances.
What does Kim Jong-un's statement mean for international relations?
Kim's declaration reflects North Korea's willingness to engage militarily alongside Russia, raising concerns about escalating tensions in the region.
Why did Kim Jong-un not attend the Victory Day celebrations in Moscow?
Although anticipated to attend, Kim's absence was likely due to security and logistical challenges.
