British Prime Minister Keir Starmer suggested that the potential involvement of North Korean military forces in Russia’s war against Ukraine could signify the Kremlin’s increasing desperation.
This comes amid reports from Ukraine’s intelligence that 11,000 North Korean troops are undergoing training in Russia and will be ready to fight alongside Russian forces by 1 November. This development could provide Russia with additional manpower and complicate Ukraine’s military efforts. It could also strain international relations, potentially prompting South Korea to increase support for Ukraine and impose new sanctions.
“If this is true, then, in my opinion, it shows the level of desperation,” Starmer stated, speaking at a press conference in Berlin.
He emphasized that such a move would appear “more like an act of desperation than anything else.”
The British Prime Minister also claimed Russia to be in “a difficult position,” referencing high numbers of casualties and the impact on their resources, noting that the war is consuming 40% of its budget.
The press conference followed discussions between Starmer and leaders from the United States, France, and Germany, during which ongoing support for Ukraine was among the topics addressed.
The United States has expressed concern over these reports, while Estonian intelligence analysts believe that North Korean involvement would not significantly alter the situation at the front.
US President Joe Biden also expressed willingness to engage in nuclear arms control talks with Russia, China, and North Korea, highlighting the need to prevent nuclear escalation. Biden emphasized that diplomacy remains a key tool to address the global threat posed by nuclear weapons despite strained relations with these countries.
Earlier, North Korea announced an increase of 1,4 million personnel in its military, a significant expansion aimed at countering perceived threats from the US and South Korea. The move follows growing military cooperation between North Korea and Russia amid rising tensions.
Related:
- Zelenskyy warns: North Korean troops join Russia’s war in Ukraine
- WP: thousands of North Korean troops train in Russia for potential Ukraine deployment
- Ukraine’s spy chief: 11,000 North Korean soldiers will be ready to fight against Ukraine starting from November
- North Korean officers killed in missile strike in Donetsk Oblast, Ukrainian intel sources say
- Blinken: US must halt Russia’s military cooperation with Iran, North Korea, and China
