North Korea Enhances Troop Deployment to Russia Amid Preparations for Kim’s Visit

North Korea is planning a visit by Kim Jong-un to Russia by year-end, with military ties strengthening as South Korea reports 3,000 additional troops sent to Russia. The North’s support to Moscow includes significant weapon supplies amid ongoing challenges in its military programs and casualty occurrences. The dismantling of border infrastructures reflects Pyongyang’s intent to cut ties with Seoul as tensions around nuclear capabilities remain critical.

Recent reports indicate that North Korea is preparing for North Korean leader Kim Jong-un’s visit to Russia later this year. Arrangements for this meeting are underway, including plans for Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov to visit Pyongyang. This visit could culminate in the first meeting between Kim and Russian President Vladimir Putin since their last summit in June of the previous year, which was held in Pyongyang.

In early reports from South Korea’s military, it is estimated that an additional 3,000 North Korean troops have been deployed to Russia this year to assist in its military efforts against Ukraine. This follows the initial deployment of approximately 11,000 soldiers, of which around 4,000 have faced casualties. The situation underscores the expanding military cooperation between North Korea and Russia.

North Korea has reportedly supplied Russia with a substantial amount of conventional weaponry, including short-range ballistic missiles and self-propelled howitzers. The Joint Chiefs of Staff (JCS) in South Korea suggest that this support will likely persist in correlation with ongoing developments. Despite an unsuccessful satellite launch last May, North Korea is reportedly preparing for another attempt to launch a military reconnaissance satellite, with assistance from Russia.

The military has noted that while there are no immediate signs of a forthcoming launch, North Korea seems focused on refining the rocket technology for its future endeavors. Moreover, recent observations highlighted the dismantling of 11 transmission towers in the Demilitarized Zone as part of North Korea’s goal to sever ties with South Korea, amid rumors of ongoing construction activities near the border.

Additionally, the report has revealed concerns regarding a mine explosion near the border, resulting in casualties among North Korean workers. The JCS has pointed out that North Korea is also reallocating personnel for building infrastructure, while its military training has been curtailed due to these domestic projects and energy shortages. As tensions rise, there are apprehensions regarding North Korea’s nuclear capabilities and its strategic posture ahead of potential diplomatic engagements with the United States, particularly in light of President Donald Trump’s renewed interest in talks with Kim Jong-un.

In conclusion, the evolving situation between North Korea and Russia signals heightened military collaboration and preparation for leadership meetings. The deployment of additional troops by North Korea to Russia and the ongoing supply of conventional arms highlights a strategic partnership. As both countries engage in strengthening ties, concerns about North Korea’s nuclear ambitions and its intentions toward diplomatic negotiations remain prominent.

Original Source: asianews.network