South Korean intelligence says North is sending troops to aid Russia’s war in Ukraine: reports
Associated PressOct 16
Seoul: N.Korean Troops Arrive in Russia to Fight Ukraine
Above: A news broadcast from Seoul shows satellite imagery provided by South Korea's National Intelligence Service (NIS). The agency said the images confirmed the presence of North Korean troops on Russian military bases. Image copyright: Kim Jae-Hwan/SOPA Images/Contributor via Getty Images
The Facts
North Korea has sent 1.5K special forces to support Russia's war against Ukraine, South Korea's National Intelligence Service (NIS) alleged on Friday.
The NIS statement — which included satellite images and other photos it said showed the troop movements — alleged that the forces were transferred to the eastern Russian port city of Vladivostok between Oct. 8 and Oct. 13, adding that more transfers of troops are expected shortly.
The Spin
Pro-establishment narrative
If the presence of North Korean troops on Russia's frontlines is confirmed, it would not only bring a third country into the war, it would increase the military tensions between the West and nuclear-armed North Korea. However, it's more likely that Pyongyang sent construction workers, technicians, engineers, and military intelligence officers, rather than fighters.
Pro-Ukraine narrative
In sending troops to fight in Ukraine, North Korea becomes directly involved in the conflict, paving the steps for another world war. This is an outrageous step that must be condemned and addressed by Western partners.
Pro-Russia narrative
Russia has a long history of friendship and cooperation with the Democratic People's Republic of Korea (DPRK). The recent ratification of the strategic partnership treaty between the two countries only formalizes the nations' existing relationships — including that Russia will defend the DPRK in the case of an attack on its territory and vice versa.