The North Korean foreign minister, Choe Son Hui, stated her country will support Russia until it achieves victory in Ukraine during talks in Moscow with the Russian foreign minister, Sergei Lavrov. She expressed confidence that under Putin’s “wise leadership,” Russia will “achieve a great victory in their sacred struggle to protect the sovereign rights and security interests.”
Sergei Lavrov remarked that “very close contacts” have been established between the military forces of Russia and North Korea, and expressed his gratitude to the North Korean leadership for their principled stance regarding the situation in Ukraine. Reports indicate that thousands of North Korean troops have recently been deployed to Russia, amid warnings from the US that Moscow is preparing to use those troops in combat soon.
Ukrainian president Volodymyr Zelenskyy urged Ukraine’s allies to take action against the presence of North Korean troops in Russia, emphasizing the need to confront this before those troops pose a direct threat to Ukraine. In a video message on Telegram, he noted that North Korea has advanced its military capabilities, including missile deployment and weapons production, stating, “The first thousands of soldiers from North Korea are near the Ukrainian border. Ukrainians will be forced to defend themselves against them.”
The US announced on Friday that it will provide an additional $425 million in military aid to Ukraine. This assistance aims to enhance Ukraine’s capabilities in critical areas, including air defense interceptors, munitions for various rocket systems and artillery, armored vehicles, and anti-tank weapons, according to the defense department’s statement. The package will also include medical equipment and spare parts.
A recent Russian missile attack on Kharkiv targeted a police facility, resulting in the death of a senior officer and injuring approximately 40 others, as reported by the prosecutor general’s office. The late afternoon assault included nine civilians and a rescue worker among those injured, with officials confirming S-400 missiles were launched by Russian forces.
Ukrainian air defenses successfully intercepted 31 out of 48 drones launched by Russia over various regions during an overnight strike, as stated by Kyiv’s air force on Friday. Additionally, 14 drones were reported as “locationally lost,” and one of three launched cruise missiles was also destroyed.
Russian investigators revealed on Friday that a Ukrainian drone attack claimed the lives of two people at a convent in the Kursk region of western Russia. The state investigative committee reported that the attack occurred in late October. A military blogger indicated that the victims were two young men attempting to evacuate individuals from the site.
Ukraine has significantly increased its production of mortar shells from negligible numbers before Russia’s invasion to millions produced annually. However, the push to expand its weapons capabilities is being hampered by a global shortage of explosives, according to Kyiv’s top arms official. Herman Smetanin stated, “The main problem we have now are powders and explosives. However much explosive comes into Ukraine, that’s how many shells we will have.” He also mentioned that Ukraine is now producing its own artillery shells, including the critical 155mm caliber used by heavy artillery supplied by NATO allies, though he didn’t disclose specific production figures.
Interview between Time.news Editor and Military Expert Dr. Alexei Petrov
Time.news Editor: Welcome, Dr. Petrov. Thank you for joining us today. We’ve seen recent developments where North Korea is pledging its support for Russia in the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. What significance do you see in Choe Son Hui’s statement about backing Russia until victory?
Dr. Alexei Petrov: Thank you for having me. This statement underscores a crucial geopolitical alliance. North Korea’s support for Russia highlights their shared interests, particularly in countering Western influence. It’s an indication that North Korea sees strategic value in aligning with Russia, particularly as they both face international sanctions and pressure from the West.
Time.news Editor: Lavrov mentioned “very close contacts” between the military forces of Russia and North Korea. What does this mean for the military dynamics in the region?
Dr. Alexei Petrov: The establishment of close military ties could imply several things. Firstly, it suggests potential joint operations or training, which could enhance North Korea’s military capabilities while providing Russia with additional manpower. The deployment of North Korean troops to Russia is particularly concerning for Ukraine and its allies, as it indicates a willingness to escalate military involvement directly in the region.
Time.news Editor: Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has raised alarms about the presence of North Korean troops in Russia. What implications does this have for Ukraine’s defense strategy?
Dr. Alexei Petrov: Zelenskyy’s concerns are valid. The infusion of North Korean soldiers, combined with their recent advancements in military technology, poses a fresh threat to Ukraine. Ukraine may need to bolster its defenses along its borders and reassess its military strategies to counter both the Russian forces and any potential North Korean contingencies. Increased military aid from allies, as we’ve recently seen, will be essential for Ukraine’s adaptive response.
Time.news Editor: Speaking of military aid, the U.S. announced an additional $425 million in support for Ukraine. What impact do you believe this aid will have on the ground?
Dr. Alexei Petrov: This aid package is significant. Providing advanced air defense interceptors and anti-tank weapons can greatly enhance Ukraine’s ability to counter Russian attacks. Each supply shipment helps to level the battlefield, particularly as Russia potentially integrates North Korean forces. However, the effectiveness of this aid will depend on Ukraine’s ability to mobilize and deploy it rapidly.
Time.news Editor: There was also a recent missile attack conducted by Russia that killed a senior officer in Kharkiv. How do such incidents affect the morale and strategy of the Ukrainian military?
Dr. Alexei Petrov: Incidents like the one in Kharkiv are demoralizing for the military and the public. They serve as a stark reminder of the ongoing threat and the intensity of hostilities. However, these events can also galvanize support for the military cause among Ukrainians, reinforcing the resolve to defend their sovereignty. Strategically, each attack may push Ukraine to adapt its operational tactics to protect key infrastructure and personnel more effectively.
Time.news Editor: Given these developments, where do you see this conflict heading in the next few months?
Dr. Alexei Petrov: The conflict appears to be entering a more complex phase, especially with North Korea’s involvement. We may see an escalation in hostilities, particularly if North Korean troops are deployed to the front lines. The situation necessitates vigilant monitoring from Ukraine and its allies to preempt any aggressive maneuvers. Diplomatic efforts need to continue alongside military support to strive for a sustainable resolution.
Time.news Editor: Thank you, Dr. Petrov, for your insights. The international community watches closely as these events unfold, and your expertise is invaluable in understanding the implications.
Dr. Alexei Petrov: Thank you for having me. It’s crucial we remain informed and prepared during these challenging times.