Additional Coverage:
North Korea’s involvement in the Ukraine war is posing a growing threat to its neighbors. According to a US official, the authoritarian state is gaining valuable combat experience fighting alongside Russia.
North Korea has sent 12,000 troops to aid Russian forces in the Kursk region, where Ukraine has made significant territorial gains. In return, Russia is providing North Korea with military technology and economic support.
This partnership has enhanced North Korea’s military capabilities, making it more capable of threatening its neighbors. The country recently tested a ballistic missile with a hypersonic warhead, demonstrating its ability to overcome regional defenses.
South Korea is particularly concerned about North Korea’s involvement in Ukraine and has offered to provide Ukraine with increased support. The UN has attempted to limit North Korea’s nuclear program through sanctions, but Russia’s presence on the Security Council has hindered these efforts.
The US has reaffirmed its commitment to defending its East Asian allies, including South Korea and Japan. However, the potential for a more transactional approach by President-elect Donald Trump could impact the US strategy towards North Korea.