WASHINGTON — The Pentagon confirmed on Tuesday that around two thousand North Korean soldiers are moving toward Russia’s Kursk region, and a small number have already arrived. Officials are concerned these soldiers might be used to fight Ukrainian forces.
Pentagon spokesperson Major General Patrick Ryder said, “We believe Russia may plan to use these North Korean soldiers in combat roles or to support fighting against Ukraine.” However, he added that there is no confirmed information yet on North Korean troops actually entering Ukraine.
The Pentagon is keeping a close watch and is in contact with Ukraine and other allies.
Kursk is close to Ukraine’s border, and Ukrainian forces had a surprise attack there in August, taking control of a large area.
