Recent reports indicate that the number of North Korean troops involved in Russian combat operations against Ukraine in the Kursk region has surpassed 11,000, up from the previously reported figure of over 10,000. This information was disclosed by a US State Department spokesperson.
In response to Russia's accusation that the US is escalating the conflict by allowing Ukraine to use US-provided long-range missiles to target Russia, the State Department emphasized that it is Russia that has consistently escalated the conflict. The spokesperson highlighted the increase in North Korean soldiers as evidence of Russia's escalation.
The Kursk region in southern Russia is where Ukraine initiated a surprise counteroffensive in the summer to reclaim territory. US-made weapons, specifically long-range missiles, are being deployed in this region to support Ukraine's efforts. Russia's objective is to prevent Kursk from becoming a bargaining chip for Ukraine in potential future peace negotiations.
While the State Department did not officially confirm a change in policy regarding Ukraine's use of long-range strikes, a senior US official revealed that President Joe Biden had indeed authorized such actions. This decision followed the deployment of North Korean troops to Kursk.
US Secretary of State Antony Blinken emphasized that the US remains committed to adapting and adjusting its policy in response to the evolving situation in Ukraine. He noted that since the onset of Russian aggression, the US has continuously tailored its support to meet Ukraine's changing needs, including addressing new developments such as the presence of North Korean forces.
As tensions persist in the region, the US government is closely monitoring the situation and stands ready to provide further assistance to Ukraine as necessary.
