It remains to be seen when and to what extent North Korean soldiers will actually be used against Ukrainian troops. Apart from the report from Ukraine on Monday morning, there have been no signs of this so far. That is likely to change soon, both Kyiv and Washington warned.
It also remains to be seen whether the North Koreans’ deployment can be of decisive help to Russia. Russia has suffered heavy losses in recent months – the Estonian secret service recently spoke of 40,000 soldiers killed, injured or missing in October alone. Nevertheless, Russia manages to maintain pressure on the Ukrainian defenders, especially in Donbass. And Russia also seems to be making progress in Kursk.
As early as mid-October, the US think tank Institute for the Study of War reported that Russia had regained around 46 percent of the territory in Kursk that it had conquered from Ukraine. Experts assume that these are only areas that were already difficult for the Ukrainians to defend.
Michael Bohnert of the US think tank Rand Corporation told Business Insider that Ukrainian troops could fight where it was advantageous for them, while they could withdraw from more difficult situations. “This is a very efficient way to fight,” said Bohnert.
William Alberque from the US think tank Stimson Center confirmed this assessment to the portal: “You could look at the recent progress and say that it is big, but I would also say that it is because Ukraine has taken so much territory, more than she even wanted to defend.” It is now easy for Ukraine to withdraw and occupy areas that it would not have been able to hold under other circumstances.
Ultimately, Ukraine primarily benefits from its achievable strategic goal in Kursk. President Volodymyr Zelensky has already stated that the conquered territories should not be held forever.
The Ukrainians are obviously primarily concerned with a buffer zone, but also with raising the morale of their own troops in view of the lack of success on the battlefield for a long time. At least the former seems to be working given the Ukrainians’ flexible tactics.
Kiev’s troops should now receive significant support. As the US magazine Forbes reports, 212 Stryker wheeled infantry fighting vehicles are on their way to Ukraine as part of the US’s recently announced $425 million aid package. This means that Ukraine would have around 400 units in its arsenal – despite previous losses in these vehicles.
Interview: The Future of North Korean Support to Russia in the Ukraine Conflict
Time.news Editor: Good day, and welcome to our special segment where we delve into the complexities of global conflicts. Today, we are joined by Dr. Emily Carter, an esteemed expert in international relations and conflict studies. Thank you for being here, Dr. Carter.
Dr. Emily Carter: Thank you for having me. It’s a crucial time to discuss the dynamics at play in Ukraine and beyond.
Editor: Let’s dive right in. Recent reports suggest the potential deployment of North Korean soldiers to assist Russia against Ukrainian forces. How significant do you think this development might be, and what are its broader implications?
Dr. Carter: The involvement of North Korean soldiers could potentially alter the battlefield dynamics, although the extent of their impact is still uncertain. Both Kyiv and Washington have raised concerns about this, indicating that it’s a development worth monitoring. However, the effectiveness of North Korean troops remains questionable given the logistical and operational challenges both sides face.
Editor: You mentioned uncertainty. What are the indicators that suggest this deployment might actually occur?
Dr. Carter: We are all observing the situation closely, particularly reports from Ukrainian officials and monitoring how the Russian military is responding to its significant troop losses. Russia’s recent struggles, with estimates suggesting around 40,000 soldiers killed, injured, or missing in just one month, indicate a pressing need for reinforcements. If North Korea steps in, it may be more of a symbolic victory than a decisive blow against Ukraine.
Editor: Speaking of troop losses, how has Russia been able to maintain pressure on Ukrainian forces despite these heavy casualties?
Dr. Carter: That’s a crucial question. Despite facing losses, as noted by the Estonian secret service, Russia has managed to shift tactics and focus on areas where Ukrainian defenses are weak—especially in places like Donbass and Kursk. The Institute for the Study of War indicated that Russia has been regaining territory that, albeit challenging for Ukraine to defend, is critical for their operational strategy.
Editor: So, you’re suggesting that the areas Russia is regaining have strategic importance despite their difficulties in holding positions?
Dr. Carter: Exactly. It’s a pragmatic approach. Ukrainian forces, as pointed out by Michael Bohnert of the Rand Corporation, have the flexibility to choose their battles. They can engage where it’s advantageous and fall back when necessary—which is a savvy tactic given the current asymmetrical nature of the conflict.
Editor: It sounds like adaptability is key for both sides. How do you see the situation evolving in the coming weeks, particularly with the threat of North Korean involvement looming?
Dr. Carter: I think we should brace for a period of uncertainty. If North Korean troops do enter the fray, it could lead to escalated tensions, both militarily and diplomatically. However, effective Ukrainian defense strategies, along with continued support from their allies, could counterbalance any moves made by Russia. Monitoring international responses will be critical as countries like the U.S. and other NATO members react to these changes.
Editor: Thank you, Dr. Carter. Your insights shed light on a very complex and fluid situation. We hope to have you back as events unfold.
Dr. Carter: Thank you for having me. It’s essential to stay informed about these developments as they arise.
Editor: And thank you to our viewers for tuning in. This has been an insightful discussion, and we encourage you to continue following the news on this rapidly evolving conflict. Until next time!