Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky recently warned that the situation in Ukraine could escalate into a larger global conflict. This came during his visit to Brussels, where he discussed reports of North Korean military personnel being deployed in Russia, allegedly to support the Russian front against Ukraine.
NATO allies are understandably concerned about any developments that might broaden this already intense conflict. However, experts believe that while the involvement of North Korean troops represents a significant shift in the ongoing war, it is unlikely to escalate into a third world war anytime soon.
James Rogers, director of research at the Council on Geostrategy in the UK, stated that although the addition of North Korean soldiers could intensify the conflict, it’s premature to suggest that it would provoke a global war. Recent reports indicate that around 10,000 North Korean troops could be heading to Russia, with an estimated 3,000 already stationed there, according to South Korean intelligence.
Russian Defense Ministry Press Service photo via AP
This influx of troops comes as both Ukraine and Russia seek to replenish their forces over two and a half years into the conflict. With winter approaching and casualties mounting, the Kremlin might see North Korean troops as a way to avoid unpopular mobilization measures.
While no nations outside the conflict have committed troops to the front lines, Kyiv views North Korea as one of Russia’s most threatening allies, having already provided significant military support. U.S. Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin acknowledged the presence of North Korean personnel but noted it was unclear how they would be utilized.
In response to the reports, Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov dismissed the connection as “fake news,” yet also noted that Russia has a sovereign right to partner with North Korea. British Defense Secretary John Healey characterized the deployment as desperate, signaling an alarming escalation.
Additionally, Belarusian leader Alexander Lukashenko denied any notion of foreign military involvement in the Ukraine conflict, calling the deployment claims “rubbish” and emphasizing that such a move would escalate tensions.
Concerns have prompted South Korea to summon the Russian ambassador and demand the return of North Korean troops, while also exploring the possibility of sending weapons to Ukraine—a substantial shift from their previous non-lethal aid policy.
As the geopolitical climate continues to shift, the situation remains fluid and complex, with the potential for further developments in the coming weeks.