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 over 10,000 last week. This information was disclosed by a US State Department spokesperson.
In response to Russia's claim that the US is escalating the conflict by allowing Ukraine to utilize US-supplied long-range missiles to target Russia, the State Department emphasized that Russia has been the primary driver of escalation throughout the conflict.
Kursk, located in southern Russia, was the site of a Ukrainian counteroffensive in the summer aimed at reclaiming territory. US-provided weapons, specifically long-range missiles, are currently designated for use in the Kursk region. 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 policy change permitting long-range strikes within Russia, a senior US official familiar with the decision verified that President Joe Biden had indeed altered the policy to enable Ukraine to conduct such strikes. This adjustment followed the deployment of North Korean troops to Kursk.
US Secretary of State Antony Blinken emphasized the US's commitment to adapting and adjusting its approach in support of Ukraine's defense against Russian aggression. He highlighted the necessity of responding to evolving battlefield dynamics, including the introduction of new elements such as the presence of North Korean forces.
As the situation continues to develop, the US remains vigilant in its support for Ukraine and its efforts to address the ongoing conflict with Russia.
