North Korean Troops Join Forces with Russia: A Strategic Alliance?

North Korean soldiers have started fighting alongside Russian forces against Ukraine, according to the U.S. State Department. Over 10,000 North Korean troops have allegedly been deployed to eastern Russia, with most relocated to Kursk Oblast to engage in combat with Russian military units.

In a significant geopolitical development, the U.S. State Department announced on Tuesday that North Korean troops are now fighting alongside Russian forces. This revelation has sparked concerns over the deepening military ties between Russia and North Korea amid ongoing conflicts with Ukraine.

Over 10,000 North Korean soldiers have reportedly been dispatched to eastern Russia, predominantly moving to the far western Kursk Oblast. There, they have begun engaging in active combat operations in tandem with Russian forces, according to State Department spokesperson Vedant Patel.

The alliance underscores Russia's increasing reliance on North Korean military support as the conflict with Ukraine persists, raising questions about the balance of power in the region.

(With inputs from agencies.)