THE HAGUE — Dutch Defense Minister Ruben Brekelmans announced on Friday that Dutch intelligence has confirmed Russia’s deployment of at least 1,500 North Korean troops to support its war efforts in Ukraine. This follows earlier claims by the United States regarding North Korean military involvement, which Western officials view as a marked escalation in the conflict.
“We expect the troops will mainly be deployed in Kursk and consist of special units from the North Korean army,” Brekelmans said, specifying that the initial deployment appears to be a testing phase for Russia, both to assess the performance of the North Korean units and to gauge international reactions.
The city of Kursk, located near the Ukrainian border, has become a strategic point in the war, witnessing a major Ukrainian incursion as recently as August. The involvement of North Korean troops marks a deepening of Russia’s alliances, as Moscow seeks additional support amid prolonged fighting.
Although Moscow has not officially responded to the reports, it has neither denied similar claims from Washington. The Dutch defense minister’s statement is the latest indication that Russia’s military partnerships are expanding to include personnel from allied nations, adding a new dimension to the conflict.