Kyrylo Budanov of Ukraine’s HUR stated that nearly 8,000 North Korean soldiers continue to fight in Russia’s Kursk Oblast, facing significant losses. Budanov refuted claims of their absence from the front lines, while noting the North Koreans’ lack of experience and heavy casualties. He also confirmed plans for North Korea to send more artillery and missile forces to support Russia, although they will not engage in ground combat.
Kyrylo Budanov, the head of Ukraine’s Main Intelligence Directorate (HUR), reported that approximately 8,000 North Korean soldiers are actively engaged in combat in Russia’s Kursk Oblast. Although activity from these troops has diminished recently due to significant casualties, Budanov countered claims by various media that they had been absent from the front lines for weeks, labeling those reports as inaccurate.
Budanov noted that North Korean forces have sustained around 4,000 casualties, encompassing both injuries and deaths. He attributed these heavy losses to their limited combat experience and the tactics employed, which involve mass infantry assaults. Additionally, he stated that North Koreans have been operating with minimal support from combat vehicles.
Despite the reduced activity of North Korean forces, Budanov emphasized that North Korea intends to dispatch further artillery and missile units to Russia, though these additional forces are expected to remain out of ground combat operations. His comments suggest ongoing support for the Russian military amid the ongoing conflict.
The involvement of North Korean troops in Russia’s military efforts, particularly in Kursk Oblast during the ongoing conflict with Ukraine, highlights the complex international dynamics at play. North Korea’s military engagement raises questions about the impact of foreign forces and the changing strategies within the broader regional conflict. The reported casualties and tactics employed by North Korean soldiers are indicative of their operational challenges and the consequences of their lack of experience. Additionally, recent military reports emphasize that the Russian forces, despite their numerical strength, are facing significant challenges in dislodging Ukrainian forces, leading to a reliance on foreign troops such as those from North Korea.
The report emphasizes the current presence and challenges faced by North Korean soldiers in Russia’s military engagements. With significant casualties and reduced activity reported, the effectiveness of these foreign troops remains in question. Furthermore, North Korea’s plan to send additional military resources, while circumventing direct ground combat, points to a strategic redirection which may influence future operations in the region.
Original Source: euromaidanpress.com
