North Korean Soldiers May Become Cannon Fodder in Ukraine

Pentagon Raises Concerns, Alleges New Security Pact

Byline and Date

SEOUL, June 20 (Reuters) - North Korea and Russia have agreed to provide immediate military assistance if either faces armed aggression, according to a new security pact signed between the two nations. This move has raised concerns from the Pentagon, which alleges that North Korean soldiers sent to aid Russia in Ukraine would be used as "cannon fodder."

The claim that North Korea has or plans to send up to 100,000 volunteer soldiers to fight alongside the Russians in Ukraine appears to be unfounded, according to South Korean intelligence. However, the Pentagon believes that North Korea may be considering sending engineering and construction troops to help rebuild Russian-occupied cities in eastern Ukraine.

The Pentagon's concerns stem from the potential for North Korean soldiers to become easy targets for Ukrainian forces due to their lack of combat experience and modern equipment. Additionally, the presence of North Korean troops in Ukraine could further escalate the conflict and increase tensions between the United States and North Korea.

The new security pact between North Korea and Russia has sparked concerns among the international community, as it could signal a closer alliance between the two nations and potentially lead to increased military cooperation. The full extent of this cooperation and its implications for the ongoing conflict in Ukraine remain to be seen.