North Korea has sent between 14,000 and 15,000 soldiers, identified as elite Storm Corps troops, to fight alongside Russian forces in Ukraine since fall 2024. In return, Pyongyang is supplying Russia with millions of artillery shells and missiles. This military cooperation deepens the ties between North Korea and Russia, with leader Kim Jong-un pledging unwavering support and suggesting a potential military alliance. These developments follow Kim's recent meetings with both President Vladimir Putin and Chinese President Xi Jinping.
North Korea has deployed an estimated 14,000 to 15,000 soldiers to fight alongside Russian forces in Ukraine, with deployments beginning in fall 2024. These troops are identified as elite Storm Corps soldiers. The deployment allows these North Korean soldiers to gain combat experience. In parallel, North Korea is supplying Russia with millions of artillery shells and missiles. This military cooperation signifies deepening ties between the two nations. North Korean leader Kim Jong-un has pledged unwavering support for Russia, indicating that the relationship is evolving into a military alliance. This pledge comes after a summit meeting between Kim Jong-un and Russian President Vladimir Putin. Prior to this, Kim Jong-un also met with Chinese President Xi Jinping.