In brief
In a rare admission, North Korea has confirmed its military involvement in the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, stating that it has sent troops to fight alongside Russian forces. This acknowledgment comes as leader Kim Jong-un designated plans for a monument to honor North Korean soldiers who lost their lives in the fighting.
North Korea's Central Military Commission announced on Monday the deployment of troops, asserting that it symbolizes a "firm militant friendship" between North Korea and Russia, which they describe as a new chapter in their historical alliance. Meanwhile, on Saturday, Valery Gerasimov, Russia’s chief military officer, commended the North Korean soldiers for their bravery while stating that they played a crucial role in reclaiming territories from Ukrainian control, particularly in the Kursk region.North Korean state media reports indicate that approximately 4,000 North Korean soldiers have been either killed or injured in Ukraine's conflict, underlining the scale of their involvement. The planned monument will be erected in the capital city to commemorate the fallen, offering citizens the opportunity to pay their respects with flowers and prayers for those who died in battle.In this context, Kim expressed deep admiration for his troops, highlighting their fortitude during this challenging engagement.
