North Korea Poised to Send More Troops to Ukraine Despite Heavy Losses

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South Korean military officials have reported that North Korea is preparing to send additional soldiers to Ukraine, despite the significant casualties among approximately 11,000 troops already deployed to the conflict. According to the Joint Chiefs of Staff of South Korea, follow-up measures for troop deployment are being planned. This comes four months after North Korea began its military involvement, following a mutual defense pact with Russia aimed at countering perceived Western dominance.

The claim of North Korea's increased support coincides with former U.S. President Donald Trump's recent remarks about rekindling ties with North Korean leader Kim Jong-un. Trump described Kim as a "smart guy" and expressed intentions to reach out to him again, referencing previous discussions on denuclearization that took place during his presidency.

North Korean troops were initially dispatched to assist Russia in exchange for military technology. However, reports indicate that these soldiers lack combat experience and face high casualty rates, with estimates of 270 killed and around 2,700 injured. Ukrainian forces recently captured two North Korean soldiers, one of whom believed he was participating in a training operation rather than fighting.

Although North Korea has not publicly acknowledged its military role in Ukraine, Russian President Vladimir Putin has not denied the presence of North Korean soldiers. The situation highlights the increasing military alliance between North Korea and Russia amidst ongoing geopolitical tensions.

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