The news that up to 12,000 North Korean troops could be about to fight alongside Russian forces adds an exotic element to the war in Ukraine – but it is hardly surprising. Back in June Vladimir Putin journeyed to North Korea and signed a mutual defence pact with, perhaps, the most hyper-armed regime in the world.
Kim Jong Un, lifetime ruler of the Democratic People Republic of Korea, has been desperate to join Russia’s fight in Ukraine. He has provided much needed medium artillery rounds, and now is supplying two infantry brigades, according to President Zelensky this week. Among them are 1,500 special forces, allegedly.
