Zelenskyy: “Russia has begun using a significant number of North Korean soldiers in its assaults”

Preliminary data indicates that Russia has begun using a significant number of North Korean soldiers in its assaults. These troops are being integrated into combined units and deployed in operations within the Kursk region. For now, their involvement is limited to this area, but information suggests they may also be used on other fronts. Losses among these North Korean troops are already noticeable. Moscow has dragged yet another state into this war—and done so to the fullest extent. And if this is not escalation, then what is the escalation so many have talked about? It is Putin who takes steps to expand and prolong this war, pushing the possibility of peace further away. And he wants the world to face additional problems in Asia as well, which is why the Russians are training North Korea in modern warfare. Moscow is ignoring calls for de-escalation from all countries—from China and Brazil to many others. Whenever there is no firm global response, Russia exacerbates the war. It has always been this way. We will defend ourselves—including against these North Koreans. We will continue to act in full coordination with all our partners to bring this war to an end—one that ensures a reliable and lasting peace.