North Korean soldiers face dire conditions and high casualties while supporting Russian military operations in Ukraine.
At a Glance
- Over 1,000 North Korean troops killed in recent “human wave” attacks in Russia’s Kursk region
- Soldiers face severe resource shortages and are treated as expendable by military leaders
- Some North Korean soldiers reportedly committing suicide to avoid capture
- U.S. and Ukrainian officials condemn the treatment of North Korean troops
- Deployment highlights desperate measures in ongoing Ukraine conflict
Tragic Losses and Inhumane Conditions
The plight of North Korean soldiers deployed to support Russian military operations in Ukraine has taken a grim turn, with reports of massive casualties and appalling battlefield conditions. According to U.S. and Ukrainian officials, these troops are being used in “human wave” attacks, resulting in staggering losses.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy reported that approximately 3,000 North Korean soldiers have been killed or wounded in Russia’s Kursk region alone. The U.S. National Security Council provided a more conservative estimate, stating that over 1,000 North Korean troops have died in the past week.
Why, exactly, are we funding this?
Expendable Forces and Desperate Measures
The situation for these North Korean soldiers is dire, with reports indicating they are being treated as expendable by both Russian and North Korean military leaders. National Security Council spokesman John Kirby condemned this approach, highlighting the soldiers’ lack of protection and support.
National Security Council official John Kirby has described how North Korean troops, fighting against their will, are being used as “expendable” troops in “hopeless assaults against Ukrainian defenses.”
Adding to the tragedy, there are reports of North Korean soldiers resorting to suicide rather than facing capture. This extreme measure is believed to stem from fears of reprisals against their families back in North Korea if they are taken prisoner.
The North Korean troops also face severe shortages of essential resources, including water and food supplies. These conditions, combined with the high-pressure combat environment, have contributed to their dire predicament on the battlefield.
“Their losses are significant, very significant,” Volodymyr Zelenskyy said.
The deployment of North Korean soldiers to Ukraine represents a significant escalation in the conflict, with an estimated 11,000 troops sent to support Russia’s counteroffensive efforts. This move has drawn international condemnation and raised concerns about the further escalation of the war.
The revelation of North Korean troop involvement has prompted calls for action from the international community. President Zelenskyy has urged China to use its influence to pressure North Korea into halting further troop deployments. Meanwhile, the Biden administration is planning to announce new military aid to Ukraine, including Air Defense Systems and other critical equipment.
More aid coming before he leaves office? Color us shocked.
